The SNP has
said 'Westminster must step up to support Scotland's off-shore
renewable energy' as a new report shows the current UK Energy
Bill risks having a “chilling effect” on offshore
renewables.
The report
from the Scottish Parliament's Net Zero, Energy and Transport
Committee raises concerns about the impact the Bill may have on
future offshore wind developments in Scottish waters.
In
the Cross-Party Report which was unanimous, it highlights that
'the Energy Bill, the Levelling-up and Regeneration Bill, and
existing legislation...risks creating an overlapping matrix of
rules, obligations and permissions that are so complex as to
deter future offshore development.' It goes on to express
disappointment at the lack of substantive engagement from the
Tory Government on this matter.
Commenting,
who is also Deputy
Convener of Holyrood's Net Zero, Energy and Transport
Committee said:
“There’s no
doubt Scotland has huge off-shore renewable energy potential.
But, as the committee’s report rightly highlights, Westminster's
Energy Bill could have a “chilling effect” on Scotland’s
renewable future.
“It is also
deeply disappointing that the Tory Government has failed to issue
a full and substantive response to the committee ahead of the
evidence session earlier this year.
"If the Tories
don't step up and make the changes needed to this bill then,
ultimately, it's Scotland's renewable future that stands to lose
out - we cannot allow that to happen.
“Westminster
must step up to support Scotland's off-shore renewable energy.
However, it's clear independence is the only way to ensure
Scotland fulfils its vast renewable energy potential by
having full powers to support its future properly.”
ENDS
NOTES
Report on the LCM and
Supplementary LCM on the Energy Bill (UK Parliament
legislation)
