Andrea Leadsom has replaced Greg Clark as Secretary of State of the UK’s Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.
The Conservative MP for South Northamptonshire said on Twitter she is “delighted and honoured” to take on the role.
Congratulating Leadsom on the appointment, Scottish Renewables chief executive Claire Mack said: “Scotland’s renewable sector has consistently delivered for Scotland and the UK’s energy system.
“Unlocking investment to further decarbonise electricity by allowing onshore wind and solar PV to compete in low-carbon energy auctions will push down the cost of energy and enable the UK to meet its climate change obligations while creating hundreds of jobs and billions of pounds of investment across the country.
“Supporting our most innovative technologies, like wave, tidal and floating wind, and working closely with the Scottish Government to achieve all of our shared ambitions will be of huge benefit to the UK’s economy and energy system.”
Leadsom has previously been leader of the House of Commons and she also served as Energy Minister for just over a year between 2015 and 2016.
Current Energy Minister Claire Perry has meanwhile been appointed COP26 President ahead of next year’s UN climate summit to be held in the UK.
The ministerial changes are part of a wider cabinet reshuffle by new UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
Clark served three years as BEIS Secretary after being appointed in July 2016 by former Prime Minister Theresa May.
Clark said: “I warmly congratulate Boris Johnson on becoming Prime Minister. He is right to appoint a new team for a new premiership and I wish him and them well for the vital work ahead.”