A body representing Scottish farmers has blamed planning controls for stifling investment in renewable energy across the country.

The National Farmers Union of Scotland yesterday challenged the Scottish government help the country create a fuller uptake of renewable energy projects.

Speaking at a major renewable conference in Edinburgh, Union boss Nigel Miller claimed farmers and landowners were eager to play a part in meeting Holyrood’s renewable energy target.

The target aims to have 50% of gross electricity consumed in Scotland come from renewable sources by 2020.

-- Advertisement --

Mr Miller said surrounding planning controls, grid connections and grid capacity, were limiting progress.

He said: "It is a big ask for Scotland to generate 100% of its electricity from renewable sources in the future, but the reality is that we are making huge progress and a lot of people in the rural community are driving and investing in this vision.

"Like farming, renewable developments are in the public eye. It is also right at the middle of politics – both local and national – because this is about driving ambitious targets at time when there is not a lot of money about."

Miller’s remarks came on the back of news that 2012 is set to be the best year yet with regard to renewable energy.

"Offshore generation presents huge potential, but the reality is that targets are more likely to be realised on land. Farm businesses, estates and crofters can provide the platform for consistent supply, whether that be generated by wind, hydro or anaerobic digestion", he said.

(IT)