Opinion: Welcome for advancement in green renewable energy

As a member of the Environmental Audit Committee, I spoke out on issues from plastics in our waterways, to fly tipping as well as being vocal in the fight to prevent fracking taking place in Scotland.

So, it was incredibly heartening to see the report that our green renewables sector has hit a landmark achievement – generating more than 100 per cent of Scotland’s electricity demand for first time.

Scotland is punching well above its weight when it comes to tackling the global climate crisis, as new figures from the Scottish Government have revealed that 113% of Scotland’s gross electricity consumption in 2022 was generated from renewable sources. This represents a 26-percentage point increase from 2021, and shows a significant step towards the Scottish Government’s goal of making Scotland a Net Zero nation.

Despite one of the most difficult financial climates in recent times, we have seen the Scottish Government placing proper investment in building a green economy.

Unfortunately, Scotland remains at the mercy of a weak and unstable UK energy and climate change policy - having disrupted Scotland’s energy plans in the past, Westminster seems intent on sabotaging our energy future.

Labour must also end the speculation around major question marks over the timing and scale of its £28 billion Green Investment Plan. Another U-turn from dithering Keir Starmer.

Tories and Labour offer no real alternative to the failed Westminster economic policies - there can be no doubt that independence is the only way to ensure Scotland fulfils its vast energy potential.

We may have the will and the know-how to push ahead with our plans but the impetus we’ve gained will be ruined by any Tory or Labour government at Westminster which will fail to show the commitment we have.

This could be a hugely wasted opportunity if we don't choose our own path.

Only an Independent Scotland can deliver a modern, progressive stance on making Net Zero a reality. Not only for our country, right now, but for future generations.