Delay in CfD clarifications could harm Scottish renewables

A further delay in providing clarity on support for renewables could ’cause damage to Scotland’s offshore wind and islands renewable energy projects’ according to Scotland’s Energy Minister Fergus Ewing.

The Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) has postponed vital announcements on Contracts for Difference (CfD) until at least the autumn.

DECC had previously committed to publishing information on the availability of support to the offshore wind industry and projects on the Scottish islands in July, Scottish government’s press release reads.

Commenting on the announcement Fergus Ewing said:

“Today’s announcement will prolong uncertainty for the renewables industry in Scotland.

“The UK Government promised that they would end the lack of clarity about the future of renewables, that they would deliver a clear statement of policy towards 2030 and how they will maintain and achieve their climate targets.

“They have decided to delay the announcement which was promised for this month for an indefinite period, and I fear that that will directly affect jobs and investment in Scotland.

“We have many consented offshore and island renewables projects, and people in our islands communities who have been promised clarity by the UK government this month will once again be left frustrated.

“Scotland is at the forefront of the renewables industry and this decision will once again have a damaging impact here and I am disappointed the UK Government have failed to properly consult with the Scottish Government on this issue.”

Image: Scottish Government