Mr Mather emphasized the fact that the executive’s energy policies are an integral part of the overall strategy for boosting Scottish economic growth and said that he would work closely with the industry and stakeholders to develop a consensus on the way forward.
The Scottish Executive plans to focus on promoting both green energy sources and energy efficiency in order to reduce the region’s carbon footprint. Mr Mather also voiced his belief that Scotland’s energy sector could benefit from power supplied by new low carbon technologies such as carbon capture and clean coal.
Mr Mather said: Scotland’s energy sector has long been a key driver of our economy and the aim of Scotland’s new government is to make sure it continues to make this vital contribution to our economic growth. Energy must contribute to both economic development and our environmental objectives.
The energy minister went on to say: We will press on urgently with giving new technologies for generating green energy the support they need. That will include the whole renewable mix – from biomass to the energy we can generate from waves and tides.
The minister voiced his support for ScottishPower’s plans to convert its Longannet and Cockenzie power plants in Scotland to clean coal technology. Mr Mather said that the utility’s announcement demonstrated that low carbon technologies could reduce emissions, while simultaneously extending the life of the Scottish coal field.
The minister concluded: We have an opportunity in Scotland to build a broader energy sector, again integrated into the global economy through export, investment and skills. Working together I am sure we will not let this chance pass.
