The report shows for the first time that a truly sustainable energy future is achievable for Scotland, meeting climate change, renewable energy and energy saving targets plus creating new economic opportunities while protecting sensitive environments and maintaining security of supply.
The Power of Scotland Renewed report, based on research by independent energy analysts Garrad Hassan, and commissioned by Friends of the Earth Scotland, the World Development Movement, WWF Scotland and RSPB Scotland, shows that there is enormous potential to increase generation of electricity from renewable sources during the next two decades. By 2030 renewable energy can meet between 60% and 143% of Scotland's projected annual electricity demand.
If Scotland also meets official targets for energy saving, the research concludes it is feasible for all fossil fuel fired generation to be closed by 2030, delivering almost complete decarbonisation for Scotland’s electricity supply. Even in the "business as usual" case Scotland does not require any new fossil or nuclear capacity to maintain security of supply. Instead security of supply can be maintained by practical investments in grid upgrades, interconnectors, deferrable demand and electricity storage.
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The report comes within a series of UK government announcements, including an energy white paper, a renewable energy strategy and a low-carbon industrial strategy.
Duncan McLaren, Chief Executive of Friends of the Earth Scotland, said: "The threat from climate change grows daily but we still have time to take action to prevent climate chaos, as this report clearly shows. Scotland's world-leading Climate Change legislation commits us to cutting overall greenhouse gas emissions by at least 42% by 2020, and at least 80% by 2050.
"This report shows how Scotland’s energy sector can make these targets a reality. It is vital that we grasp the new economic and job opportunities that would come with a sustainable energy future."
Liz Murray, Head of Scottish Campaigns for the World Development Movement, added: "Around 300,000 people are already dying every year due to climate change. The vast majority of these are in developing countries, which have contributed virtually nothing to the problem.
"Developing countries need to see rich countries not only committing to reduce emissions, but also bringing in policies now to ensure those emissions reductions happen."
Dr Richard Dixon, Director of WWF Scotland believes the new report provides us with a clear description of how to set ourselves on the path to 100% renewable power.
(GK/JM)
