Scottish renewable energy activity generated more than £5.5 billion in turnover during 2016, according to new figures.

The UK Government statistics reveal how almost half (45.8%) of the UK's turnover from the technology in 2016 was delivered by Scottish onshore wind projects, helping to support 8,000 jobs.

In addition, the number of people employed in Scotland's offshore wind sector increased by 300%, to 2,000. Employment in renewable heat also increased from fewer than 500 to 2,500 in the same period.

However, cuts to solar power support by the UK Government saw the number of people employed in this sector fall by 75%, from 2,000 to 500.

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Jenny Hogan, Deputy Chief Executive at Scottish Renewables, said: "These new figures clearly show the benefits renewable energy is bringing to Scotland.

"Companies that are developing projects here, as well as supply chain businesses supporting the wider industry, are employing people in skilled jobs and delivering investment from the Borders to Shetland.

"The rise in employment in the offshore wind and renewable heat sectors illustrates the huge boost to jobs and investment that is possible when technologies are given the right backing by Government. For these benefits to continue and grow, the whole industry needs to see that level of political commitment sustained across the board.

"The decline in employment in the solar industry shows clearly the impact of cuts to UK Government support for the sector. We would expect that future editions of this ONS survey will show declines in other areas caused by similar decisions made at Westminster."

To view the Office for National Statistics figures, visit here.

(LM)