The Scottish Government and the Scottish Green Party Parliamentary Group have agreed to work together on a strengthened framework of support for the marine renewables and offshore wind sectors.
The work over the next five years forms part of the devolved government’s policy to build a green economic recovery from COVID, respond to the climate emergency and create a fairer country.
The shared draft policy programme – known as the Bute House Agreement – also contains a commitment to enhance marine environmental protection and almost double Scotland’s onshore capacity, laying out an ambition for between 8GW and 12 GW of installed onshore wind by 2030.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon (pictured) said: “I am delighted that the Scottish Government has reached a ground-breaking agreement with the Scottish Green Party that meets the challenges and opportunities of our time.
“The challenges we face have rarely been greater – the climate emergency, recovery from a global pandemic and an assault by the UK government on the powers of our Parliament.
“The agreement delivers bold policy action on pressing issues.
“Steps to accelerate our transition to net zero – more support for active travel, transformation of home energy and a ten year transition fund for the North East of Scotland.
“A focus on green jobs and fair work – and a sustainable recovery from COVID.”
“It recognises that business as usual is not good enough – we need boldness, courage and a will to do things differently. That is what we offer.”
Green Party co-leader Lorna Slater added: “The stakes could not be higher – with the COP26 climate conference coming to Glasgow, Scotland is in a position show real leadership on climate.”