A new £60 million fund aimed at tackling climate change and helping Scotland to develop low-carbon infrastructure is to be launched later by Climate Change Secretary, Roseanna Cunningham.

The Low Carbon Infrastructure Transition Programme (LCITP) will be officially unveiled at Scotland House in London later today, 22 January.

Co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), the programme will fund large scale projects which support the ambitions of Scotland's Energy Strategy.

Schemes such as low carbon heating solutions, integrated energy systems, and ultra-low emission vehicle charging infrastructure will be able to apply for up to £100,000 to develop investment-ready business cases or financial support of up to 50% of the total capital value of a project. Up to a maximum of £10m per project is available for capital–ready projects.

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The programme has already offered over £40m of funding to 16 low carbon demonstrator projects supporting low carbon energy generation and supported the co-development of over 30 proof of concept and development proposals.

Speaking ahead of this evening's event, Ms Cunningham said: "We have, first and foremost, a moral obligation to fight climate change.

"But for a nation with Scotland's resources and skills, the transition to a more prosperous, low carbon and circular economy also presents a valuable economic opportunity. We are determined to attract, retain and develop the low carbon innovators who will shape our future.

"That is why, I am delighted to confirm that we are now accepting applications from innovative local energy projects to the Low Carbon Infrastructure Transition Programme."

Transport Minister Humza Yousaf added: "The Scottish Government is committed to the introduction of a cleaner, greener transport network and ultra-low emission vehicle infrastructure is central to that. I am pleased we are making such a significant sum available to encourage innovative local solutions to some of our most challenging national issues."

(LM)