Scottish Renewables' Chief Executive, Niall Stuart, is to step down from his position.

Mr Stuart, who has been in the position since September 2009, will leave the post this August to set up his own consultancy focused on strategic communications, policy development and regulatory affairs.

Mr Stuart said: "I have greatly enjoyed my time with Scottish Renewables, and it is clear that we have all achieved a huge amount over the last seven years.

"We have grown our sector to become the country's main source of electricity – more than doubling capacity since 2009 – and recently secured government support for a new renewable energy target for 2030.


"I am really grateful for the opportunity to have led the organisation's work over the last seven-and-a-half years, for the support of our directors and staff team, and the huge amount of input from all of our members."

Patricia Hawthorn, Chairman of Scottish Renewables, said: "The directors will begin the process of identifying a replacement over the next few weeks as we seek to continue Scottish Renewables' important work in leading and supporting the development of our sector.

"Whilst there are many challenges ahead, there are also some tremendously exciting opportunities as we seek to decarbonise the wider energy system, and renewable energy clearly has a growing role at the very heart of Scotland's economy."

(LM/JP)