Samsung is to develop a testing site for offshore wind energy systems in Scotland.

A demonstration turbine will be built in Fife and used to test technology aimed at increasing the efficiency and reliability of wind energy.

The development at Fife Energy Park in Methil is being supported with around £6 million from Scottish Enterprise following consent from Marine Scotland.

The seven-megawatt-capacity turbine will stand 110m-tall and will be 35 metres offshore from Mean High Water Springs. Construction will begin later this year.

Finance Secretary John Swinney said the development marks the next step in establishing a "globally competitive supply chain" for the offshore wind industry.

"The site at Fife Energy Park offers the ideal location for a cutting-edge test centre like this," he said.

Chan Hee Son, UK project manager at Samsung Heavy Industries, said: "This is a major step forward in our plans to develop our latest offshore wind technology in Scotland and is a testament to the Scottish Government's support of the offshore wind energy industry."

Scottish Enterprise chief executive Lena Wilson said: "We are building a strong supply chain, which is critical if we are to truly realise offshore wind potential."

WWF Scotland director Lang Banks said: "This helps to keep Scotland on track to creating green jobs, meeting its renewables target, and cutting emissions."