The Electricity Generation Policy Statement (EGPS) published today by the Scottish Government sets out its plans for renewable energy and fossil fuel thermal generation in Scotland’s future energy mix. The report is based on research studies looking at future energy supply, storage and demand. The EGPS says that modelling commissioned by the Scottish Government confirms that the target of the equivalent of 100% of gross electricity consumption from renewables by 2020 is technically feasible.
The statement says that low carbon energy policies will not only benefit the environment and create jobs, but also lead to lower household bills. Low carbon energy policies and measures could lead to an average household energy bill of £1,285 by 2020 – whereas carrying on with ‘business as usual’ would lead to bills of £1,379.
The Scottish Government is aiming to develop an electricity generation mix built around four key principles:
- a secure source of electricity supply
- an affordable cost to customers
- decarbonised by 2030
- achieves the greatest possible economic benefit and competitive advantage for Scotland
Energy Minister Fergus Ewing said:
“This report shows that the Scottish Government’s target to generate the equivalent of 100 per cent of our electricity needs from renewables, as well as more from other sources, is achievable.
“We know there is doubt and scepticism about our 100 per cent renewables target, and the financial and engineering challenges required to meet it.
“But we will meet these challenges. I want to debate, engage and co-operate with every knowledgeable, interested and concerned party to ensure we achieve our goals.
“We know our target is technically achievable. Scotland already leads the world in renewable energy, and we have the natural resources and the expertise to achieve so much more.
“The prize at stake for the people of Scotland is huge, in terms of jobs, economic opportunities and lower electricity bills for all. I am determined to win that prize.”
Scotland is currently a net exporter of electricity owing to renewable deployment - and is likely to remain so. For example, the UK targets to produce 15% of all energy and an estimated 30% of electricity from renewable sources by 2020 will require connection to Scotland’s energy resource.
The EU has also designated the North Sea as a priority corridor for energy infrastructure which will enhance Scotland’s ability to export low carbon energy in the longer-term. Scotland has the largest offshore renewable energy resources in the EU (25% of EU offshore wind; 25% of EU tidal; and 10% of EU wave power). With 10GW of offshore wind and 1.6GW of wave and tidal projects currently planned, Scotland has the potential to make a major contribution to the EU's overall renewables target.
Keith Anderson, ScottishPower’s Chief Corporate Officer and CEO of ScottishPower Renewables, commented:
“ScottishPower supports the commitment to increase low carbon electricity generation in Scotland and we welcome the clarity outlined in the Scottish Government’s policy statement. We are making significant investments in large scale renewable energy projects including new wind, wave and tidal power. This investment is critical in order to help Scotland achieve its renewable energy targets and will be a catalyst for economic growth and job creation.”
The Scottish Government is seeking comments on the policy statement – deadline for submission of responses is 4th June 2012.
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