Scotland is in the midst of a new energy revolution as it looks for new ways to develop renewable and low-carbon resources, the environment secretary said.
The Scottish government said it was examining new ways to support green energy while at the same time making sure local communities benefit from the programs.
Richard Lochhead, the Scottish environment secretary, said his country was "experiencing a new energy revolution" as offshore wind and tidal energy projects are "generating revenue and offering huge potential."
He said Edinburgh was examining fundamental reforms that would make the government more accountable on offshore energy projects.
His country could lead the way in sustainable energy production, he said in a statement, and build not only a reputation as a conventional energy hub but also as a prime host for green energy developments.
Scotland hosts about 25 percent of Europe's wind and tidal capacity. The government aims to get 80 percent of its electricity needs through renewable resources by 2020.
"We cannot and will not stand by and allow the benefits of our natural assets to bypass the Scottish people or flow out of Scotland altogether," said Lochhead.
The Scottish government said it was examining new ways to support green energy while at the same time making sure local communities benefit from the programs.
Richard Lochhead, the Scottish environment secretary, said his country was "experiencing a new energy revolution" as offshore wind and tidal energy projects are "generating revenue and offering huge potential."
He said Edinburgh was examining fundamental reforms that would make the government more accountable on offshore energy projects.
His country could lead the way in sustainable energy production, he said in a statement, and build not only a reputation as a conventional energy hub but also as a prime host for green energy developments.
Scotland hosts about 25 percent of Europe's wind and tidal capacity. The government aims to get 80 percent of its electricity needs through renewable resources by 2020.
"We cannot and will not stand by and allow the benefits of our natural assets to bypass the Scottish people or flow out of Scotland altogether," said Lochhead.
