“Scotland has a wealth of renewable energy, but we don’t feel richer for it.” – Platform

Developing renewable energy sources is all the more urgent as climate change and global conflicts escalate. Aberdeenshire is an important region for this transition with multiple wind farms being proposed and built. Yet there remains many questions and concerns about how this switch in energy production will benefit communities across the shire.

At this week’s Friday Lunch, Connor Watt from Platform will discuss the impact of this energy transition and the potential for positive change. Platform is a UK-wide charity that unites workers and communities to address the social injustices caused by climate breakdown.

Originally from Banff, Connor began his career researching the ways in which oil and gas workers build a life around this industry, and how similar patterns are now being replicated in the shift towards renewables. This perspective has informed his role working on a new campaign, Our Power – this encourages the Scottish Government to ensure the people of Scotland benefit from the country’s burgeoning renewable industry by taking public ownership of the energy system. For Friday Lunch Connor will talk about what Our Power is proposing and how it could shape the future of towns like Huntly.

Come along to hear from Connor and enjoy a free tasty meal – no booking required just turn up. Lunch will be veg soup with crusty bread and gluten free oatcakes.

Accessibility

Friday Lunch is usually attended by 15-25 people. It takes place in Square Deal (22 The Square, Huntly AB54 8BR), the creative and community hub on Huntly Square. There is a guide to visiting Square Deal online here. This includes information on travelling to the venue, photos and plans of the space, and sensory information.

This is a family friendly event and children are very welcome. We have highchairs and children’s cutlery/crockery available.

There are facilities for heating up your own food if desired.

This event is free, but donations of £2 to cover the cost of ingredients and any travel/access costs for the speaker are welcomed.

Allergens/dietary Notes

Food at this event is prepared in a kitchen that may have traces of nuts, seeds, dairy and other allergens. Everything is clearly labelled and there are always vegan and gluten free options. Please let us know if you are planning on coming along and have any food allergies by emailing: bruce@deveron-projects.com

About Friday Lunch

The sharing of food is a great leveller. On the second and fourth Friday of the month, we invite people who live or work in and around Huntly to speak about things they are passionate about – this could include their work, a project, an area of research or hobby. Topics are broad and change every time, from nature to community development, writing to food, history to social justice among many others.

About the HOME Programme

This event is part of our HOME Programme. Through regular events and artists’ residencies, HOME supports the everyday and creative practices of cooking and eating, chatting and caring, sharing skills and learning together. HOME regular events include Friday Lunch, as well as the monthly Food Chain cookery workshop and a stall at the Huntly Farmers' Market. These events celebrate local knowledge and experiences, and explore what it's like to live and work in and around Huntly. Through this work we aim to build more complex understandings of Huntly and its place in the world. If you'd like to contribute to the HOME Programme, or know someone who you'd love to hear from, then get in touch with us on: info@deveron-projects.com.