As anticipation builds for the Highlands & Islands Thistle Awards 2025, we continue our series spotlighting the esteemed sponsors whose commitment and leadership make these awards possible. Today, we highlight BayWa r.e., an innovator in renewable energy and a passionate supporter of the Highlands’ tourism sector.

About the Company

At BayWa r.e. we re-think energy; how it is produced, stored and can be best used to drive forward the renewable energy transition that is essential to the future of our planet.

BayWa r.e. has been active in the United Kingdom since 2011. The UK development pipeline currently stands at over 600 MW of onshore wind, 1.4 GWp of solar, and 1.3 GW of battery energy storage projects, being delivered from offices in Glasgow and Edinburgh. In addition to onshore technologies, BayWa r.e. is part of Buchan Offshore Wind, which secured rights via the ScotWind leasing round to develop a 960 MW floating offshore wind farm off the northeast coast of Scotland.

As a founding member of Highland Renewables, BayWa r.e. has delivered a number of renewable projects in the Highlands, with our current project being the Corriegarth 2 Wind Farm near Gorthleck, due to start construction next year. We are delighted to continue our support of several locally important initiatives, such as the Highland Thistle Awards, where sustainability is a key pillar of the event and award criteria.

Why They Sponsor HITA

As an active member of Highland Renewables, we focus on working closely with the communities and businesses local to our projects. The Highland Thistle Awards are an excellent opportunity to recognise and celebrate the success of Highland businesses and the teams behind them.

Category Sponsorship

BayWa r.e. are proud to sponsor the Best Outdoor or Adventure Experience, aligning with our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. As a renewable energy company, BayWa r.e. supports initiatives that promote outdoor experiences, adventure tourism, and responsible interaction with nature.

This category celebrates businesses that provide exceptional outdoor and adventure experiences, encouraging people to engage with Scotland’s stunning landscapes. By sponsoring this award, BayWa r.e. reinforces its dedication to preserving natural spaces and promoting sustainable tourism.

Supporting Businesses and Tourism in the Highlands and Islands

BayWa r.e. plays a key role in supporting businesses and tourism in the Highlands and Islands through its involvement in Highland Renewables, a partnership that connects the renewable energy and tourism sectors.

By promoting renewable energy projects, BayWa r.e. helps create a more sustainable tourism industry that aligns with Scotland’s environmental goals. Renewable energy projects bring significant financial investment to the Highlands and Islands, benefiting local businesses and communities.

Role in the Local Economy and Community

BayWa r.e. plays a significant role in the Highlands economy and community by driving renewable energy projects that contribute to local development. Projects like the Corriegarth 2 Wind Farm inject millions into the Highlands economy, supporting local businesses and creating jobs. The company has been working with communities to ensure that the project aligns with regional needs and provides long-term benefits, providing a community benefit fund of over £330,000 a year, totalling just under £10 million during the 30-year life of the wind farm, to support local charities and community projects.

Industry Trends and Innovations

Wind energy is evolving in ways that make projects more beneficial and engaging for local communities. Wind farms contribute to job creation and infrastructure development, boosting local economies. In Scotland, community benefit funds from wind projects are expected to reach £12 million per year, supporting local initiatives. Renewable energy projects are also increasingly integrated with eco-tourism, offering educational tours and outdoor experiences that highlight sustainability efforts.

Wind developers are working closely with communities to preserve landscapes, support biodiversity, and fund local projects, ensuring that renewable energy benefits extend beyond electricity generation.

These innovations are making wind energy more accessible, rewarding, and impactful for local communities.

Looking Forward to HITA 2025

The Highlands & Islands Tourism Awards (HITA) are a truly inspiring event, bringing together the businesses that make the region such a breathtaking, adventurous, and welcoming destination. We are looking forward to celebrating the heart and soul of the Highlands—the passionate people and innovative businesses that shape its world-class tourism industry.

Alignment with Company Goals and Values

For BayWa r.e., sponsoring the Best Outdoor or Adventure Experience Award goes beyond celebrating excellence—it’s a tribute to the very essence of the Highlands. The awards not only recognise outstanding contributions to tourism but also underscore the critical need for a sustainable future, showcasing how businesses can collaborate to drive forward environmentally responsible tourism. By supporting these efforts, BayWa r.e. reinforces the value of innovation, community engagement, and sustainability in shaping the Highlands as a premier destination for generations to come.

Find Out More

Corriegarth 2 Wind Farm: https://www.baywa-re.co.uk/en/wind/corriegarth-2-windfarm
https://www.baywa-re.co.uk/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/bwre-emea/

Three Words to Describe the Company

Innovative. Sustainable. Collaborative.

Message to the Finalists

“Your dedication, innovation, and passion for showcasing the beauty, culture, and adventure of the Highlands and Islands make this region a truly world-class destination. These awards are not just about recognition: They are honouring the heart and soul of the Highlands, the spirit of adventure, and the commitment to excellence that make this region so special. Best of luck and thank you for making the Highlands a place that continues to captivate and welcome the world!”