It is not the people of these islands that want this, it is the Amecs of this world and their wholy owned subsidiaries - the Scottish Executive & Highland council etc.

nabodican - just because you don't, don't assume you speak for everyone else.

There is great potential for jobs and income. The alternative is theme park islands for people wearing tweed.

I think that the islands should become self sufficient in green energy. i.e. not use fossil fuels for domestic and industrial energy.

I agree however that it is not viable to transport energy off of the islands.

I have no problem whatesoever with Scottish Islnads becomming what some claim to be "self sufficient" electricity wise (even if they are not actually so when the wind is not blowing - or blowing to hard) but I have a massive problem with islanders seeming belief that they own the islands in perpetuity and hence have the right to sell off our landscape heritage for a few long term jobs and a bribe paid for by other electricity consumers (acquired by the developers in the shape of a hidden subsidy)

Fair play. I agree with you sir #5.

Just a side point, but the waves and tides never cease, perhaps these will be better energy sources and at less cost to the "eye".