A NEW report has revealed how independence could unleash Scotland’s energy potential and be the “equivalent of a new oil boom for Scotland”, according to the SNP.
The report by Dr David Skilling, director of Landfall Strategy Group, showed that the sector could create up to 385,000 jobs and boost the Scottish economy by £34 billion a year by 2050.
The SNP’s leader at Westminster, Ian Blackford, said the report shows "independence is the key to unleashing Scotland's potential as the European renewable energy powerhouse of the 21st century".
He went on to say that the Union was holding Scotland back and that the country “must grab the opportunity” of independence to fully capitalise on our energy potential.
What did the report find?
The key findings from The Economic Opportunity for Scotland from Renewable and Green Technology were:
• By using its full powers to expand its renewable energy capacity, an independent Scotland could boost its economy by £34bn a year by 2045/2050 and create 385,000 jobs.
• Scotland has the potential to boost its onshore wind output more than five-fold – with current installed renewable capacity soaring from 12GW to 80GW by 2050.
• Scotland holds 25% of European offshore wind and tidal resources – and the potential to generate around 10% of Europe’s total wave power.
• Renewable electricity accounted for 99% of Scotland’s gross electricity consumption in 2020, up from 24% in 2010 – which is one of the highest shares across advanced economies.
• Maximising low-cost renewable energy could give Scottish businesses a competitive edge and make Scotland more attractive for foreign direct investment amongst energy-intensive firms.
How have people responded to the figures?
Commenting, SNP Westminster Leader Ian Blackford MP said that “energy-rich Scotland” is being held back by Westminster and the “long-term damage of Brexit”.
He added: “Our communities are literally paying the price for years of Westminster failure, as energy bills soar. Only with independence can Scotland escape Westminster control and maximise our energy production to provide the security and prosperity we need.
"Scotland must grasp the opportunity to lead the renewable revolution with independence. It is the green prosperity equivalent of a new oil boom for Scotland. If we are left stuck under the handbrake of Westminster control, it will cost our economy billions and put our energy security at risk."
SNP business, energy and industrial strategy spokesperson Stephen Flynn added: "With the full powers of independence, Scotland can be a world-leader on renewable energy production and exports - and reap the benefits for our economy, household incomes, and the environment.
"For too long, Westminster has held energy-rich Scotland back and our communities are now facing the devastating consequences. We cannot allow Westminster to squander Scotland's renewable energy potential, just as it squandered our oil wealth."
