A strategy to drive Scotland’s fair and just transition away from
fossil fuels will be published by next Summer.
Energy Minister announced the timeline as
the consultation responses to the draft Energy Strategy and Just
Transition Plan, and independent analysis of those responses,
were published.
The responses, and continued engagement with a range of
interested parties including industry, the Just Transition
Commission and the Scottish Energy Advisory Board, will inform
the finalised strategy.
Stressing the importance of reaching net zero in a way that
spreads the benefits and costs of energy decarbonisation fairly,
Ms Martin re-iterated calls for the UK Government to do more to
accelerate investment, reform markets and ensure benefits flow to
communities.
Ms Martin said:
“Delivering on our climate obligations with an unwavering
commitment to a fair and just journey to net zero is an absolute
priority for the Scottish Government.
“The consultation confirmed broad support for our vision and
highlighted the importance of providing policy certainty to
enable investment in skills, infrastructure and technologies. We
will now publish our Energy Strategy and Just Transition Plan by
next Summer, setting out how we intend to create a net zero
energy system that delivers affordable, secure and clean energy
while benefiting communities across Scotland by providing high
quality jobs and economic opportunities.
“We believe that all future extraction of fossil fuels must be
subject to strict climate compatibility and energy security
tests. Our focus is on meeting our energy security needs,
reducing emissions and delivering affordable energy supplies,
whilst ensuring a just transition for our oil and gas workforce
as North Sea resources decline.”
Background
Read the statement in full
here.
Read independent analysis of the
consultation responses.
Read the consultation responses
cleared for publication by respondents.
