Islanders on Eigg hope to benefit from wind, hydro and solar power

Isle of Eigg Heritage Trust has been awarded �750,000 of European funding toward the �1.6m scheme.

It means detailed plans can now be drawn up for the project, which would use wind, water and solar power.

Five windmills, a series of micro hydro plants and solar panels will eventually end Eigg's dependence on diesel generators for electricity.

Trust secretary Maggie Fyffe said the reliance on diesel was frustrating.

She said: "Electricity is the one single issue that is holding the place back.

"Having to rely on diesel generators is a cause of frustration. The fuel has to be brought over by boat, put in barrels and put in a trailer and driven to where it is needed."

Climate change

Allan Wilson, deputy enterprise minister said the �750,000 was part of a �2.5m European funding package distributed to 23 projects across the Highlands and Islands.

He said: "The Isle of Eigg Heritage Trust project is a particularly worthwhile one, and will see the island harness the benefits of wind, hydro and solar power to provide a reliable energy supply.

"We are all aware that renewable energy has a vital role to play in combating climate change and ensuring a secure power supply for years to come."

Last year, Eigg was given �250,000 from the Big Lottery Fund towards the energy project.