“Energy that is generated from solar can, without a shadow of a doubt, make a very significant contribution to both the decarbonisation of our energy supply and the just transition that we need to make to a net zero emissions society by 2045,” she said on the floor of the Scottish Parliament recently.
Her remarks were in response to a question on the forthcoming new energy strategy posed by Fergus Ewing MSP. The strategy, due to be published shortly, is expected to include a solar target.
Stretching and deliverable
Sturgeon stopped short of committing to the 4-6 gigawatts of deployment by 2030 that the solar industry is seeking, described by Ewing as “a very clear, practical, deliverable and achievable target.”
However, her comments that “stretching and deliverable” targets were important in driving deployment and in boosting the supply chain were received warmly.
Thomas McMillan, chair of Solar Energy Scotland, said: “We welcome the comments today and look forward to engaging in the energy strategy consultation and providing the case and evidence for a strong target for solar deployment to 2030.
Removing barriers and stepping up
“SES would also like to thank Fergus Ewing MSP and MSPs of all parties who have supported the efforts across the chamber to make the case for removing barriers and stepping up policy for solar in recent years. 2022 has seen major steps forward on accelerating permitted development rights, business rates incentives and positive measures in the new national planning framework.”
“The existing targets for wind and other renewable technologies have rapidly driven decarbonisation and brought new jobs to rural and urban Scotland: a 2030 solar target is the missing piece of that jigsaw,” McMillan added.