Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said she is committed to publishing the final Onshore Wind Policy Statement and a Vision for Onshore Wind in Scotland, which will set out how 12GW of onshore wind can be developed in the country.
This commitment to onshore wind mirrors Scottish Renewables’ earlier call for an Onshore Wind Sector Deal which industry needs to achieve net-zero by 2030.
Today’s Programme for Government also saw Sturgeon commit to facilitating the development of Scotland’s offshore wind supply chain as part of the potential development of almost 28GW of offshore wind energy through the ScotWind Leasing process.
The announcements came after Scottish Renewables called for an Onshore Wind Sector Deal and Scotland’s first ever Low-Carbon Industrial Strategy to drive forward renewables-led investment and a transition for Scottish clean energy suppliers and manufacturers.
“We are pleased that our suggestions for an Onshore Wind Sector Deal and supply chain support were reflected in the First Minister’s Programme for Government set out in the Scottish Parliament today,” said Ben Walker, head of public affairs and campaigns at Scottish Renewables.
“The Scottish Government’s commitment to publish the Onshore Wind Policy Statement and a Vision for Onshore Wind will make vital progress towards achieving a sector deal for this most critical of Scottish industries.”
Walker said that onshore wind is a “tried, tested and trusted technology” which can provide low-cost power and help to keep consumer bills down at a time when they are needed most.
“The pledge to develop our offshore wind supply chain reflects aspects of our call to introduce a Low-Carbon Industrial Strategy,” he added.
“This announcement will help to kick start a Scottish industrial strategy, helping realise the vast opportunity of ScotWind as well as ensuring a just transition for our clean energy suppliers.”