By Lois Atherton, Senior Client Manager
The Energy Transition is Here
Scotland’s energy landscape is shifting – from multi-gigawatt offshore wind projects and floating technology leadership to multi-billion-pound manufacturing investments, the opportunity is clear.
89% of Scottish supply chain firms see renewables as the country’s biggest economic opportunity (Scottish Renewables, 2025).
Oil production in the North Sea peaked back in 1999 and has been steadily declining ever since. At the same time, the region has rapidly transformed into one of the world’s leading offshore wind hubs. The UK is already delivering nearly 15GW of offshore wind power, with ambitious targets set to reach 60GW by 2030. Complementing this growth, massive investments in ports, manufacturing facilities, and grid infrastructure are driving unprecedented demand across the supply chain.
With a long-established energy sector, Scotland’s traditionally oil & gas-focused supply chain SMEs have many transferable skills. The challenge lies in defining their positioning, selecting the right sectors to target, and navigating market entry. The businesses that thrive will be those able to pivot their story – not just their service list.
Opportunities for Scotland’s Energy Supply Chain
Scotland’s location, skills base, and offshore heritage offer real advantages as the renewables sector grows. Developers and contractors are increasingly prioritising local content and suppliers who can demonstrate community benefits, short supply chain routes, and a deep understanding of local waters are in a strong position.
Specialist expertise is in high demand. Rapid growth is happening in areas like blade protection and repair, mooring systems for floating wind, offshore access solutions, and battery storage and hybrid off-grid power. SMEs that clearly communicate these sector-specific technical strengths will stand out from generalist providers.
Sustainability credentials are no longer optional. The sector is looking for partners who can prove measurable CO₂ savings, waste reduction, and other environmental benefits. Many Scottish SMEs already have strong ESG stories but don’t showcase them effectively – yet these credentials can be a decisive factor in winning contracts.
There is also a growing export market for Scottish renewables expertise. From specialist consultancies to engineering innovators, many SMEs are already supplying overseas projects. With the right positioning, businesses can be both local specialists and global innovators – opening the door to opportunities far beyond home waters.
Getting “Future-Fit” for the Energy Transition
Spotting the opportunity is one thing. Positioning your business to seize it is another. To successfully diversify into renewables, SMEs need to take a strategic approach that covers:
- Mapping your capabilities to these new and emerging markets
- Crafting sector-relevant messaging that resonates with developers and contractors
- Boosting market visibility through targeted outreach, networking, and partnerships
- Strengthening your brand – ensuring your identity, tone of voice, and visual presence reflect the innovation, sustainability, and credibility that renewables clients expect
- Internal alignment so teams understand the strategy and can deliver on the promise
The energy transition is no longer on the horizon – it’s happening now, with major contracts being awarded and supply chains taking shape across Scotland. For SMEs in the region, the key to success lies in refining your positioning, strengthening your messaging, and making sure you’re visible in the conversations that matter.
At Genoa Black, we draw on extensive experience supporting oil & gas supply chain SMEs as they diversify into new markets. We work with businesses to sharpen their positioning, elevate their brand presence, and develop sector-specific strategies that capture the attention of the right customers, helping you confidently navigate the shift to renewables and secure your place in this rapidly evolving landscape.
Our team will be attending SPE Offshore Europe in Aberdeen this year. If you would like to arrange to meet with us at the event and discuss how we can help, please contact us.
