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Renewables report
25/08/2010
In response to the Scottish Offshore Wind: Creating an Industry report published by Scottish Renewables and Scottish Enterprising today, Energy Minister Jim Mather said:
"This report shows the fantastic competitive advantage that exists in Scotland for developing offshore wind.
"It highlights the considerable economic opportunities for Scotland, supporting up to 48,000 Scottish jobs while delivering energy security and cutting emissions.
"Progress is already underway on offshore wind development around Scotland with 11 sites having secured 'exclusivity agreements' with The Crown Estate to deliver a total capacity of 10.6GW over the next decade.
"Unlocking the potential of offshore wind requires investment from both the private and public sector. This report underlines the case for early investment and therefore it's now urgent for the Treasury to release Scotland's £185 million Fossil Fuel Levy to further develop the renewables industry.
"It is also essential that the Westminster Government delivers a level playing field when it comes to the costs of supplying energy to the grid - that means ending the system whereby punitive charges are imposed on energy suppliers in Scotland, while those in other parts of the UK are paid subsidies."