The Scottish solar industry has called on Edinburgh to introduce a dedicated action plan for the technology to help it play a greater role in the country’s energy mix.
The Solar Trade Association (STA) Scotland said solar should be part of the country’s ambitious plan to meet 100% of electricity demand from renewable by 2020.
It has also asked Edinburgh to implement dedicated solar PV and solar thermal targets and examine a support tariff.
In addition, STA Scotland has issued recommendations on business rates, social housing and community energy in a bid to spark greater solar deployment.
STA Scotland chairman John Forster said: “There are a number of simple, practical things the Scottish Government can do to boost solar north of the border, whether it is encouraging wind and solar to share grid capacity or changes to planning.
“We are also keen that the Scottish Government look at options to establish its own financial support mechanisms for solar to bridge the gap between now and the early 2020s when we hope to see mainstream solar projects become subsidy-free.”
He added: “We are optimistic that the next few years will be good for solar in Scotland. There is scope for Scotland to lead the way within the UK, encouraging markets for solar on residential homes, commercial rooftops, new build homes and buildings and solar farms.”
Image: rooftop solar at the House of Dun bunkhouse Montrose (Solar Trade Association Scotland)
