First Minister convened the first meeting of
the Scottish Energy Advisory Board (SEAB) since taking on the
role at the University of Strathclyde.
Shortly after returning from COP28, the First Minister urged the
UK Government to ensure that grid investment matches the pace of
Scotland’s net zero ambition, while delivering a just transition
for communities and the energy workforce. He also emphasised the
importance of collaboration between government and the energy
industry.
The First Minister said:
“Scotland is at a pivotal point in the energy transition, and
although we have already made great strides towards net zero
there is still more to do to maximise our enormous renewables
potential as we make the move away from fossil fuels. As we do
so, we must ensure that transition is fair and just for the
communities and workers who depend on our energy sector.
“It is clear that significant investment is needed to ensure the
grid does not become a barrier to net zero - grid investment must
proceed at the pace and scale required to enable the full use of
current and future renewables capacity through projects like
ScotWind.
“While we welcome recent developments from the UK Government on
electricity infrastructure, the Scottish Government must be
involved closely as plans develop to ensure they deliver on the
promise to speed up the connections process, upgrade the grid,
and provide lasting benefits for communities.
“Realising the vision of our draft Energy Strategy and Just
Transition Plan will deliver affordable, secure and clean energy,
and benefit communities across Scotland by providing high quality
jobs and economic opportunities. The views of those consulted –
including across the energy sector, and those with whom I met
today – are vitally important - we are taking the time needed to
respond to the views they have expressed.”
Professor Sir Jim McDonald, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the
University of Strathclyde and Co-Chair of the Scottish Energy
Advisory Board, said:
“I am delighted to welcome the First Minister to his first
meeting as Co-Chair of SEAB and we thank him for his commitment
to the work of this important group.
“SEAB plays an important role in facilitating discussions between
government, industry, business leaders and academia on the
opportunities and challenges in Scotland’s energy sector. The
common mission of SEAB members is to agree priorities, actions
and the joint investments required to build a low carbon economy
that not only ensures energy security but seeks to create the net
zero pathway to create jobs, drive Scotland’s economy and boost
prosperity.
“I look forward to working closely with the First Minister and
our SEAB members as the Scottish Government develops its Energy
Strategy and Just Transition Plan ahead of its publication next
summer.”
Background
Draft Energy Strategy and Just
Transition Plan - gov.scot (www.gov.scot)
Scottish Energy Advisory Board -
gov.scot (www.gov.scot)
