Orkney Energy Trail launched to showcase island innovation

A new interactive online energy trail has been launched by the Islands Centre for Net Zero (ICNZ), led by EMEC.

The Orkney Energy Trail brings together the locations, innovations and stories that have made the archipelago internationally recognised as a pioneer in energy innovation.

Designed for locals and visitors, the trail provides an online portal of discovery into how Orkney’s natural resources have shaped island life and driven energy developments over centuries.

An interactive map and timeline allows users to explore the islands’ rich energy heritage from EMEC’s ocean energy test and demonstration facilities to historic sites that reveal how previous generations powered their homes, businesses and communities.

Users can discover the site of the UK’s first grid-connected wind turbine at Costa Head, learn about Eday’s historic peat railway, and explore evidence of what may have been a Viking sauna with underfloor heating on the Brough of Birsay.

The trail connects heritage sites, museums, community energy projects and energy infrastructure, helping people to explore Orkney’s energy story both virtually and in person.

Karen Jamieson, EMEC’s Knowledge Exchange Coordinator for ICNZ said:

“Orkney is known around the world for its pioneering energy projects, and behind every innovation is a story about place, people and community. The Orkney Energy Trail brings those stories together, allowing people to explore the islands’ remarkable energy journey and discover how Orkney continues to lead the way in developing sustainable energy solutions.”

The Orkney Energy Trail makes Orkney’s energy story more accessible to a wider audience while supporting tourism, education and public engagement. It showcases how Orkney’s relationship with energy has evolved over time, from the resources that sustained earlier generations to the renewable technologies helping to shape the islands’ future.

The launch forms part of ICNZ’s ongoing commitment to sharing knowledge, inspiring innovation and supporting the transition to a sustainable net-zero future for island communities.

The Orkney Energy Trail is available on PCs, tablets and phones and is free to access online at Orkney Energy Trail.

ICNZ is funded by £16m from the UK Government and £0.5m from the Scottish Government as part of the Islands Growth Deal.