Scotland has met a key target for renewable energy consumption, according
to official figures.
Statistics published by the UK Department of Energy and Climate Change show
57.7% of Scottish electricity consumption came from renewables in 2015 –
7.7% ahead of the 50% target.
The SNP welcomed the figures and pledged to bring forward plans to go
further if re-elected in May.
Deputy First Minister and SNP campaign director John Swinney said: “The SNP
have long championed green energy and these new figures show the huge
progress we have made – but we are determined to go even further.
“As we set out in Parliament earlier this month, the SNP is developing an
ambitious and long-term Scottish energy strategy which, if re-elected, we
will implement over the next parliament and beyond.
“The strategy will aim to make electricity cleaner, affordable and more
secure for all consumers.”
Mr Swinney said the SNP’s commitment to renewables contrasts with the UK
Government’s decision to end a public subsidy scheme for onshore wind farms
earlier than planned.
He added: “Growth in renewable energy is one of the reasons Scotland is
seen as an international leader in taking action to tackle climate change –
alongside our world leading targets to reduce our carbon emissions.
“Scotland has continually led on climate change – setting a good
international example as well as taking significant action at home, as
today’s renewable energy statistics show.”
WWF Scotland director Lang Banks said: “It’s fantastic news to learn that
Scotland has continued to grow its use of renewables and now generates well
over half of its annual electricity needs from clean energy sources.
“Ahead of May’s elections we need all political parties to continue to
prioritise renewables and commit to ensuring Scotland secures the benefits
of becoming the EU’s first fully renewable electricity nation by 2030.
“Independent research has shown that it is possible for Scotland to have a
secure, efficient electricity system, based on almost entirely renewable
electricity generation, by 2030. Embracing that vision would maximise the
opportunities to create new jobs, empower communities and support local
economic renewal throughout the country.”
Dr Richard Dixon, director of Friends of the Earth Scotland, said: “This is
great news and an important step in creating a fossil-free Scotland.
“Despite the UK Government’s ideological assault on renewable energy,
Scotland is storming ahead, smashing through our 50% target for 2015. Well
done to all those in this vital industry who have helped produce a big
increase from the 2014 figures.”
Jenny Hogan, director of policy for Scottish Renewables, said: “This is
another important milestone for our industry and shows renewables are now a
mainstream part of our power sector.
“There is still a huge amount of potential for future growth, if the
industry is given the right backing by government.”
She added: “Despite having enough projects in the pipeline, recent changes
to government support, and hold ups in the consenting process for offshore
wind farms, have set us on a path to fall short of the 2020 target.”
3 Comments