New figures, published today (26 June) by the Scottish Government's Department of Energy and Climate Change, has revealed record levels of renewable electricity output for the first three months of 2014.

The statistics show that in the first quarter of 2014, 6,678 GWh of renewable energy was generated in Scotland. This is an increase of more than 50% from the same period in 2013.

This overall increase is said to be mainly due to a record quarter of hydro output, which is 9.2% higher than the previous record quarter at the end of 2011. Wind generation is also at its highest level, 4% higher than the previous record.

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Energy Minister Fergus Ewing said: "2013 was a record year for renewables generation in Scotland, but the initial figures for 2014 show that renewables generation continues to go from strength to strength, with the figures for the 1st quarter of 2014 setting a new record for renewables generation in Scotland.

"The record high hydro output shows that we are contributing to a balanced mix of energy generation across Scotland which could see hydro power account for up to a quarter of Scotland's generating capacity in the next decade.

"The value of renewable energy to Scotland’s economy, and to reducing our carbon emissions, is clear and our commitment to harnessing Scotland’s energy wealth – both onshore and offshore, and in the right locations – will ensure that renewables continue to provide low carbon energy supplies as well as jobs and investment long into the future."

(JP/MH)