It’s an exciting time for the renewables industry in Scotland. The sector has remained relatively unscathed by the economic hardship brought on by COVID-19 and there is now a global focus on ensuring a post-pandemic green recovery.
At the heart of its recovery plans, the Scottish Government has pledged nearly £1.6 billion to support up to 5,000 jobs and tackle fuel poverty in a bid to end Scotland’s contribution to climate change. The investment will also transform heat and energy efficiency of buildings and rapidly accelerate the decarbonisation of an area which makes up a quarter of Scotland’s greenhouse gas emissions.
Figures revealed earlier this year show that 97.4 per cent of Scotland’s electricity demand was met by renewable sources in 2020 – 70 per cent of which came from onshore wind power. Investor appetite in the Scottish onshore wind market remains strong despite both the pandemic and continued political uncertainty from Brexit and renewed support for Scottish independence.
Andy McFarlane, Head of Renewables at Scottish law firm, Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie says: “The future of the renewable energy sector is looking bright here in Scotland.
“There are plenty of opportunities in this country at the moment – particularly in onshore wind power. Scottish onshore wind projects are attractive to developers who know there is a ready market for investors.
“Glasgow is set to host the COP26 climate change conference later this year, which will serve to bolster Scotland’s green potential and ambition.”
Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie LLP’s expert renewables team has a diverse range of specialisms across property, agricultural and crofting law, planning, construction, tax, and dispute resolution. Whether it is onshore wind, battery storage, hydro, biomass or solar – the renewable energy law team will be able to advise you.
Visit www.wjm.co.uk/services-and-sectors/sectors/energy or call 0141 248 3434 to find out more.
