Brexit implications on Scottish energy up for discussion

(Photo: Scottish Government)
(Photo: Scottish Government)

 
Scottish ministers will meet with the energy industry representatives today to discuss the effects the UK-wide vote to leave the EU will have on Scotland’s energy sector.

The first of two summits will be held today, September 21, in Edinburgh, where Minister for Business, Innovation and Energy Paul Wheelhouse will meet with key sector stakeholders to hear more about the challenges presented by the EU referendum vote, according to the Scottish government.

Wheelhouse will set out plans for the Scottish Government’s forthcoming Climate Change Plan and Energy Strategy, and discuss the best joint way forward to navigate current uncertainty with the industry.

Wheelhouse said: “Scotland’s third Climate Change Plan will set out how we intend to meet our greenhouse gas reduction targets between now and 2032, towards a long-term reduction of 80 per cent on 1990 levels by 2050. Building on the Climate Change Plan, our new Energy Strategy will demonstrate how to facilitate and capitalise on the transition to a low carbon economy, reaping social, economic and environmental benefits.

“This will form our strategic response to the challenges and opportunities facing the sector and articulate our long term vision for energy in Scotland out to 2050. We will seek to provide leadership, clarity and direction for industry – the impetus for which has greatly increased following the EU referendum.”

Wheelhouse will be accompanied by the Minister for UK Negotiations on Scotland’s Place in Europe, Mike Russell.