Scotland
School closures announced in Scotland and Wales
Schools in Scotland and Wales will close in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, amid speculation that similar measures could be announced in England.
A Budget to achieve net zero?
This is a Budget like no other in recent times. Delayed due to a surprise general election, the first under Prime Minister Johnson, being delivered by a Chancellor appointed less than a month ago, and happening within a challenging geopolitical and economic environment.
Climate change policies ‘could lead to rioting if not implemented fairly’
Rioting similar to the yellow vests protests in France could happen in Scotland if measures to cut emissions are not seen to be fair, ministers have been warned.
NorthConnect: What’s in it for Scotland?
Towards the end of this year, a final investment decision is due to be taken on the NorthConnect project which by 2024 would import surplus hydro electricity from the Hardanger region of Norway into Scotland, at Boddam, via a 400-mile interconnector.
Hundreds of thousands of jobs ‘need to be filled to meet net zero goals’
Hundreds of thousands of people will need to be recruited into the energy sector to reach the goal to cut emissions to net zero by 2050, a report for National Grid shows.
‘Second ever’ Scottish swordfish sighting at North Sea wind farm
Experts have made a rare sighting of a swordfish at what will become the largest wind farm in Scotland.
Highlands and Islands should feel ‘buzz’ of Scotland’s floating wind sector
The Highlands and Islands should capitalise on the “buzz” surrounding Scotland’s growing floating offshore wind sector, according to the region’s energy development chief.
Scot Gov announces £30m renewable energy homes plan
The Scottish Government has announced it is set to introduce a multi-million plan to ensure all new homes use renewable energy from 2024.
Thousands could be without gas for days during freezing conditions
Thousands of people could be without gas for days in central Scotland due to a mains failure.
‘At least’ £1bn North Sea cash should fund energy transition, Sturgeon says
At least £1 billion of North Sea revenues should be set aside to help areas heavily dependent on oil and gas make the switch to a greener economy, Nicola Sturgeon has argued.
The power of Scotland on show at Adipec
From November 11-14, the eyes of the global energy industry will be firmly fixed on the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition & Conference (Adipec).
K2 Management look to wind farm development with Scottish ‘focus’
Renewable energy consultancy K2 Management has revealed it will look to move into UK renewable energy development, which will include a big focus on Scottish projects.
Oil and gas support services bring £2.2bn to Scotland’s marine economy
New figures show support services for the oil and gas industry are leading Scotland's marine economy.
Full ban on fracking urged ahead of Scottish Government statement
Opposition parties have called on the Scottish Government to promise an outright ban on fracking.
Thousands of students pick renewable energy courses
Almost 13,000 students are studying courses related to renewable energy at Scotland's universities and colleges as the country "upskills" to tackle climate change, according to new research.
Scotland launches new £30m fund for low-carbon heating
A new £30 million fund for low-carbon heating infrastructure is now open for projects to make applications.
Scotland in £12.6bn ‘black hole’ despite North Sea tax receipts
Scotland had a £12.6bn deficit last year despite more than £1.4billion in North Sea receipts, according to new tax and spending figures.
Hydrogen economy could insulate Scotland from volatile oil price
In the week or so before I sat down at my desk to write this column, four important and potentially linked events took place.
Hypothermia, falls and electrocution – figures lay bare Scotland’s windfarm injuries
Hypothermia, falls from height and electrocution are among the injuries caused to Scotland’s windfarm workers over the last five years, according to new figures.
OPEC boss commends Scottish transition but claims ‘all types of energy will be required’
The boss of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) has commended Scotland on its efforts to transition to cleaner energy, but added that "all types of energy will be needed".
Foreign investment in Scottish projects falls, EY report says
The number of projects involving foreign firms investing in Scotland fell by almost one-fifth last year, a new report has revealed.
Beatrice reaches renewables record for Scottish output
Operators of the Beatrice offshore windfarm say it has produced the highest amount of energy from any single renewables source in Scotland to date.
Scottish renewables firms exporting to more than 70 countries
More than 70 countries across the world are benefiting from Scotland's knowledge of renewable energy, a survey suggests.
Construction completed at Scotland’s largest offshore windfarm
Work has been completed at the largest offshore windfarm in Scotland.