The UK government’s forthcoming energy White Paper must provide a clear roadmap for delivering on a 2050 net zero carbon emissions target, All-Energy 2019 has heard.
ScottishPower chief executive Keith Anderson said the document is a critical framework for the renewables sector to deliver on the recent Committee on Climate Change (CCC) report that called for a quadrupling of green generation by mid-century.
“Everyone in the room needs to put pressure on the delivery of that White Paper,” he told All-Energy delegates in Glasgow on Wednesday morning.
Anderson added: “It is the most critical…White Paper that will ever be written around energy.”
Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon called for a significant expansion of support in renewables in the White Paper.
Sturgeon also called on London to accept the CCC advice on achieving net zero emissions by 2050 and is “optimistic” that will happen.
Speaking at All-Energy, Sturgeon said it is vital that the growth of renewables results in wider benefits for UK consumers and the supply chain.
The energy transition can also ensure there is a healthier, wealthier and fair society for all citizens, she told delegates.
“My pledge is that Scotland will fully play our part to do everything we can to support the low carbon and renewables sector,” she said.
“Working with you we will take the action to make Scotland a net zero emissions country and ensure Scotland remains at the forefront of the climate change fight.”