Axel Piper

The next generation of renewable energy leaders in Scotland has been named, with more than 30 young professionals shortlisted for this year’s Young Professionals Green Energy Awards. The highly anticipated event, scheduled for May 1 at Glasgow’s Radisson Blu Hotel, will celebrate the achievements of those pushing boundaries in the industry. Recognizing Innovation and Dedication More than 300 attendees are expected to gather as the brightest talents in the sector are recognized across eight competitive categories. The awards, organized by Scottish Renewables, highlight individuals who are driving forward new ideas and innovations in Scotland’s transition to clean energy. Among the…

The Scottish government has failed to meet its legal targets for reducing child poverty, with newly released figures showing progress but falling short of the interim benchmarks. Despite efforts to curb poverty through social security programs, the data raises concerns about whether the country can meet its long-term goals by 2030. Child Poverty Rates Drop, But Not Enough New figures for 2023-24 show Scotland’s relative child poverty rate at 22%, while absolute poverty stands at 17%. These numbers reflect a slight decrease from the previous year but remain above the government’s target of getting relative poverty below 18% and absolute…

Scotland could see some of the cheapest electricity prices in Europe—if a major shake-up in the UK’s energy pricing system goes ahead. That’s the view of Octopus Energy’s boss Greg Jackson, who argues that bills should be calculated regionally rather than at a national level. The Case for Zonal Pricing Right now, electricity prices across the UK are set based on the costliest form of energy being used anywhere in the country at a given time. Since gas is still a major source of power, bills remain high—even in places like Scotland, where renewable generation is abundant. Jackson believes a…

The cargo vessel Solong, involved in a collision with the oil tanker Stena Immaculate in the North Sea, is being towed to Aberdeen for further assessment. Authorities have confirmed that the vessel will arrive at the Scottish port later this week. Salvage Efforts Progress as Solong Heads to Aberdeen The UK Coastguard has been closely monitoring the situation. Chief Coastguard Paddy O’Callaghan stated that salvage operations have advanced, ensuring Solong can be safely relocated to the Port of Aberdeen for secure berthing. Meanwhile, the Stena Immaculate remains in a stable condition at sea, with salvage efforts ongoing. While no major…

The Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS), a subsidiary of NatWest Group, is ramping up its support for UK entrepreneurs. Over the next three years, RBS will collaborate with up to 10 UK universities to establish new business accelerators, further embedding itself in the country’s innovation ecosystem. Aiming for 10,000 Entrepreneurs by 2025 NatWest Group is setting an ambitious target: bringing 10,000 entrepreneurs into its Accelerator community by 2025. This initiative is part of the bank’s broader strategy to support the UK’s economic growth through targeted investment in high-potential businesses. Since its inception in Birmingham in 2015, the RBS Accelerator has…

Scotland is set to transform mental health care with the introduction of its first-ever network of walk-in support hubs. Spearheaded by the charity Scottish Action for Mental Health (SAMH), the initiative aims to provide immediate assistance to those struggling with mental health issues—eliminating the barriers of referrals, appointments, and waiting lists. No More Waiting Lists: Immediate Mental Health Support SAMH’s ambitious new project, The Nook, is designed to end the "waiting list misery" experienced by tens of thousands seeking mental health services. Unlike traditional support systems, which often require lengthy waiting periods and bureaucratic hurdles, The Nook will offer a…

The recent acquisition of Belgrave Logistics Park by Swiss Life for £40 million highlights a renewed appetite for institutional investment in Scotland. The transaction, recognized as the "Sale of the Year" in Scotland by CoStar's Impact Awards panel, reflects confidence in the logistics market's resilience and the increasing importance of sustainability in investment decisions. A Major Vote of Confidence in Scotland's Market Swiss Life's purchase of Belgrave Logistics Park is more than just a significant financial transaction—it underscores a broader trend of institutional investors returning to the Scottish commercial real estate sector. The deal was completed at a net initial…

BDO Scotland has promoted Craig Goold to lead its mergers and acquisitions (M&A) division, reinforcing its commitment to deal-making across multiple sectors. The firm, which has experienced significant revenue growth, is coming off a record-breaking year in deal advisory. A New Leader for a Growing Team Craig Goold has been part of BDO Scotland since 2016, steadily climbing the ranks. His previous role as M&A managing director positioned him at the forefront of some of the firm's most high-profile transactions. Now, as head of M&A in Scotland, he takes charge of a team that has seen revenue surge by approximately…

Transport Scotland has released its Active Travel Infrastructure Investment Report for 2023-24, revealing that more than £165 million was spent on making it easier for people to walk, wheel, and cycle across the country. The investment has led to hundreds of new and improved routes, crossings, and junctions, enhancing accessibility and safety for all road users. Major Investment Brings Significant Improvements The report highlights the extent of the improvements made throughout the year: More than £165 million was allocated across nine funding streams. Over 950 infrastructure projects were implemented. A total of 115 km of new and upgraded walking, wheeling,…

The next Convener of Universities Scotland, the representative organisation for Scotland’s 19 higher education institutions, will be Professor James Miller FRSE. He will assume the role on 1 August 2025 for a two-year term, bringing extensive leadership experience to a sector facing crucial challenges. A Leader with a Vision for Scotland’s Universities Professor Miller, currently Principal & Vice-Chancellor at the University of the West of Scotland (UWS), was elected by his fellow Principals. Speaking on his appointment, he emphasized the transformative role of universities in Scotland’s communities, economy, and global engagement. “I know from my own experience that universities matter.…