A record number of people are now employed in the renewable energy sector in Scotland, a new report has claimed.

More than 540 companies were surveyed by independent researchers on behalf of Scottish Renewables for the study.

Its findings suggest that 11,695 people are currently in full-time employment – an increase of 5% from the previous year. This represents a higher rate of growth in employment when compared to the Scottish economy as a whole.

When it came to where most of the jobs were located, Glasgow, the Lothians, Highlands and Islands and the North East topped the list, while onshore wind (39%), offshore wind (21%) and marine and bioenergy (both 9%) were the most notable sources of employment.

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Of the 540 companies surveyed, 54% said they would be looking to employ more people in the next 12 months, with a further 42% saying their employment levels would stay the same. Only 1.6% expected them to fall.

Joss Blamire, Senior Policy Manager for Scottish Renewables, said: "These latest figures show the renewables industry has seen steady growth in the number of people being employed despite an uncertain year.

"The breadth of job opportunities for project managers, ecologists and engineers has led to a wide range of people seeing renewable energy as a sector where they can use their skills and training.

"Renewables is proving it can be a significant contributor to many local economies throughout the country with emerging sectors such as offshore wind and marine energy already playing their part in creating much needed job opportunities."

However, he warned that the industry could not afford to become complacent.

He added: "The survey also found that market reforms in the electricity sector, planning issues and connecting projects to the grid were all cited as potential barriers that could get in the way of future growth."

(JP/MH)