Green sector delivered more electricity than Scotland used for
first time.
Renewable technologies generated the equivalent of 113% of
Scotland’s overall electricity consumption in 2022, new
statistics show.
This is the highest recorded to date, and a 26 percentage point
increase compared to 2021.
The Scottish Government is taking action to scale up renewable
technologies to transform and expand Scotland’s clean energy
generation sector.
It is also working to ensure Scotland maximises the economic
benefits the sector will bring through commitments such as
providing up to £500million to leverage private investments to
support infrastructure and the offshore wind supply chain.
Energy Secretary said:
“This is a significant milestone in Scotland’s journey to Net
Zero. For the first time Scotland has produced more renewable
electricity than it consumed, demonstrating the enormous
potential of Scotland’s green economy.
“Scotland has the skills, talent and natural resources to become
a global renewables powerhouse. Our ambition is not only to
generate enough green electricity to power Scotland’s homes and
businesses, but also export electricity to our neighbours,
supporting jobs here in Scotland and the decarbonisation
ambitions of our partners.
“The significant growth in renewables will deliver a climate
friendly energy system that delivers affordable, resilient and
clean energy supplies for Scotland's households, business and
communities.
“We will soon be publishing our Green Industrial Strategy setting
out the steps we will take to maximise the benefits that
Scotland’s abundant natural resources can deliver in creating new
jobs and opportunities across the country.
“But in a number of areas progress is being held back by factors
such as grid capacity and the lack of a market mechanism for the
likes of pumped hydro storage, which is why we need urgent
investment from the UK Government now and more consistent
commitment to industry in the years ahead.”
Background
Energy Statistics for
Scotland.
