In 2017, 68.1% of gross electricity consumption in Scotland met by renewables.
New figures demonstrate renewable electricity generation in Scotland in 2017 increased by 26% on last year, making 2017 a record year for renewable electricity generation.
In 2017, it is estimated 68.1% of gross electricity consumption came from renewable sources, up from 54% on 2016 and 45 percentage points more than the equivalent figure for the rest of the UK.
The latest figures, published today also show:
At the end of 2017 a record, 10GW of installed renewables electricity capacity was operational in Scotland, a 13% increase over the year from Q4 2016
In 2017, wind generation increased by 34% and hydro by 9%
Renewable electricity generation in Quarter 4, 2017 increased by 45% from the same time last year.
Energy Minister Paul Wheelhouse MSP welcomed these figures saying:
“These figures show that Scotland’s renewable energy sector is stronger than ever and has a strong pipeline of further projects still to be constructed.
“Despite damaging policy changes from the UK Government that will soon come into full effect, we continue to harness, galvanise and support Scotland’s renewables potential, both in generation and infrastructure.”
Kenneth Gibson MSP added:
"Scotland's Energy Strategy recognises and builds on our achievements to date and on our country's capacity for innovation.
“Renewable energy will play a hugely significant role in powering Scotland's future and through the strategy we want to ensure the correct strategic decisions are taken to support this much valued sector of Scotland’s economy as it goes from strength to strength."
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