Scottish Budget reponse

Responding to the Scottish Government's draft Budget, which was delivered on December 14,

Claire Mack, Chief Executive of Scottish Renewables, said:

"The Scottish Government's continued commitment to renewable energy is of course to be welcomed, particularly as its final Energy Strategy will be published within days.

"It is encouraging that the Government recognises renewable energy as a key driver of Scotland's economy.

"Of note are the funds allocated to support both low-carbon innovation and the decarbonisation of the heat sector - a task which is of critical importance if we are to tackle climate change.

"We also welcome the reaffirmation of the Government's intention to follow the suggestions contained in the Barclay Review of business rates and to link increases to the Consumer Prices Index, both of which will benefit new and existing green energy generators. We are pleased that Scottish Renewables' recommendations on these points have been heeded.

"We will continue to work to understand the full implications of the detail contained in the Budget document for our members and look forward to working with the Scottish Government as the measures outlined in the Budget and upcoming Energy Strategy are implemented."