Scotland Advances its Renewable Energy Commitment

 

November 29, 2005

"Hydroelectric power is already making a significant contribution to reducing the harmful emissions causing global warming," said Allan Wilson Deputy Enterprise Minister. "We have set a target that at least 40 percent of Scottish electricity is generated from a variety of renewable sources by 2020."

The Douglas Water hydroelectric generating station near Inveraray will generate enough energy to meet the electricity needs of approximately 2,000 homes. Causeymire windfarm in the Highlands will be extended to supply electricity to around 33,000 households every year.

"We are hoping to progress the two schemes as soon as possible to have them operational by 2008," said Kevin McCullough, Managing Director for Npower Renewables, the developer of both projects. "Not only does this add a further 9.9 megawatts of renewable energy to our portfolio but it emphasizes our commitment to developing, and operating, a range of renewable energy technologies across Scotland."

"This commitment is underpinned by Npower renewables position as the UK's leading wind farm developer along with our powerful heritage in hydro-electricity which dates back some 100 years. Furthermore, we are actively supporting the development of marine power through the Npower juice fund and are involved through our parent company with co-firing biomass projects," said McCullough.

The Scottish Climate Change Program sets out the Executives contribution to the UK Climate Change objectives. A key measure is the commitment that 18 percent of electricity generated in Scotland should come from Renewables by 2010.