Scotland's energy sector is making a significant contribution to economic recovery, according to figures published today.

Giving evidence to the Economy, Energy and Tourism Committee's energy inquiry, Jim Mather pointed to the Scottish Government's key sector report on energy published today.

The report shows that employment in the energy sector (excluding renewables) rose 10% between 2006 and 2007 to 40,700; 23% of the GB energy sector total.

Renewables account for at least 3,000 jobs in Scotland, with the potential to support at least 16,000 new jobs over the next decade.

It is estimated that around 10,000 jobs will accrue to Scotland with the development and deployment of clean fossil fuels and carbon capture and storage.

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Scotland exported an average of 17% of its electricity between 2000 and 2007.

The news comes as key energy industry experts meet with the First Minister to discuss Scotland's current and future policy on energy.

Energy Minister Jim Mather said: "The Scottish Government is determined to respond positively to the global downturn by creating the conditions for a strong recovery. The energy sector in Scotland is uniquely placed to lead that recovery.

"Our key energy opportunities lie in our exceptional renewable energy resources, our oil and gas industry, strong academic research, world class industrial supply chains and our investment in marine and offshore renewables technology. We are well placed to lead Europe on the development of carbon capture and storage on a commercial scale, with the Northern North Sea constituting Europe's largest potential carbon store."

Mr Mather believes Scotland must become a world leader in reducing emissions and producing clean, green energy. Strengths in these areas are increasingly being recognised - by the EU and its plans for a North Sea grid and by global interest in our Saltire Prize for marine renewables.

(GK/JM)