The Scottish Government has set a target to generate 50% of the country's energy needs from renewable sources by 2030.

The recently published draft Scottish Energy Strategy sets out a number of targets for Scotland to hit by 2050.

Features include developing a modern, integrated energy system that delivers low carbon energy at affordable prices, protecting energy security, building upon the existing economic strengths of the energy sector and tackling fuel poverty.

The draft Strategy also seeks views on a number of issues such as the future of onshore wind development in Scotland, steps to support renewable electricity generation technologies, securing supply, grid investment and the role for large-scale storage.

In addition, views on establishing a Government-owned energy company are also being sought, as well as the potential role for renewable energy bonds, the development and use of emerging energy sources and technologies, a renewed focus on energy efficiency, innovation in offshore wind and the delivery of smart local energy systems.

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The consultation on the draft Energy Strategy will run until 30 May 2017.

Next month, details will be announced of up to £50 million in funding for 13 projects which demonstrate low carbon or renewable electricity, heating or storage solutions.

Energy Minister Paul Wheelhouse said: "The decisions we make about Scotland's energy future are among the most important choices we face as a society.

"I am very keen to ensure this strategy, which helps to underpin key aspects of the Scottish Government's Climate Change Plan which was published last week, is infused with the thoughts and views of people from right across Scotland and I would strongly encourage everyone to participate."

Jenny Hogan, Director of Policy at Scottish Renewables, welcomed the publication of the draft Strategy.

"This is a landmark moment in Scotland's transition to a low-carbon economy," she said.

"The new draft strategy shows that Scotland is serious about building on the fantastic progress made in renewable power over the past decade and maintaining our position as a global leader in green energy. 

"Setting a new target for renewables to deliver half of our energy needs by 2030 sends a strong signal that renewable energy will be at the heart of Scotland's economy and is key to meeting our climate change targets at lowest cost.

"While ambitious, the target is achievable but absolutely depends on the right support from both the UK and Scottish Governments."

To view the strategy, visit here.

(LM/MH)