The new MP representing the UK's largest constituency area has demanded energy giants compensate local people living in renewable energy "gold rush" areas.
Angus MacDonald, Liberal Democrat MP for Inverness, Skye and West Ross-Shire used his maiden speech in the House of Commons to call for legislation requiring firms to invest more of the multi-billion pound industry back into communities.
Setting out how the Highland climate makes it the ideal base for renewable energy, he said local people were living in fuel poverty in an area attracting investors from around the world.
During a debate on the GB Energy Bill Mr MacDonald called for legislation requiring energy generators installing new schemes to provide 5% of revenue as community benefit.
Additionally, a further suggestion that 2% is set aside for existing schemes capable of generating more than 1MW of energy.
He said: “While the Highlands are beautiful and its people are wonderful, the region struggles financially... the rural west faces severe fuel poverty, public service cuts, and a lack of essential services, with many young people leaving for cities.
“There is a considerable disadvantage for rural people taking on the downsides of hosting our move from a carbon based energy world to renewable alternatives.
"What was a beautiful view of the mountains is now rows of 200m high turbines and large new pylons marching to the cities where the demand is.
"It is only fair that we make this very beneficial to the impacted people.”
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Following the speech, Mr MacDonald said: “This is one of the only occasions an MP is listened to in silence and without interruption by their colleagues.
"It was the perfect opportunity to speak about an issue I am passionate about.
"It is essential the Highland communities in particular and rural areas everywhere see real benefit from the numerous renewable energy schemes on their doorsteps.”
Mr MacDonald won the new Highland constituency with a majority of 2,160 votes.
A lengthy recount meant it was the last in the UK to be declared in July's General Election.
The new constituency takes in a sizeable portion of what was Charles Kennedy's Ross, Skye and Lochaber constituency.
He lost it to Ian Blackford in 2015 after an ugly election campaign marred by allegations of bullying by the SNP. He died from a haemorrhage linked to alcoholism less than a month later.
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