Renewables and fossil fuels electricity generation equal in Scotland

Renewables and fossil fuels for the first time accounted equally in 32 percent of total electricity generated in Scotland, it is stated in Scottish Government’s comment on the energy statistics report published today by DECC.

Scotland continues to be a net exporter of electricity, exporting a record 28 percent of generation in 2013, up from 26 percent in 2012.

When taking the electricity exported into consideration, renewable sources of electricity accounted for 44.4 percent of Scotland’s electricity consumption in 2013 – up from 38.8 percent in 2012.

The statistics also show that Scotland’s renewable electricity generation in the first three quarters of 2014 was 21 percent higher compared to same period in 2013.

Energy Minister Fergus Ewing commented:

“Renewable generation continues to go from strength to strength in Scotland – now matching fossil fuels for the first time.

“The figures show 2013 was another record breaking year for renewables and we continue to be on track to do the same in 2014 – with renewable electricity production up 21 percent on the same time last year. We remain on track for our targets of 50 percent of demand by 2015 and 100 percent by 2020.”

Energy minister also affirmed that the Government remains committed to making Scotland a leading low carbon investment destination.

Image: flickr/Liberal Democrats