Friday 14 September 2012

Fergus Ewing: We can’t afford to get reforms wrong

Scotland’s Energy Minister said we can’t afford to get the electricity reform wrong as he called on the UK Government to work together.

During a debate on the UK’s draft Energy Bill yesterday, Fergus Ewing said the Bill had great potential but warned the continued uncertainty on the reforms was damaging investor confidence.

He also said the reforms must include the Scottish Government’s approach towards supporting renewable energy, which has attracted investment and development in the sector.

Mr Ewing said: “The reforms the UK Government is planning will be fundamental to the energy sector both in Scotland and the rest of the UK. We must get them right – we cannot afford not to – and we must work together to achieve this.

“The Scottish Parliament has exercised devolved power over the Renewable Obligation judiciously, effectively and successfully to create a strong and effective framework of support.

“If done correctly, I believe the reforms could provide the necessary regulatory and price certainty for low-carbon technologies. But if we get these reforms wrong, they could undermine the strong industry progress and growth we have worked hard to deliver in Scotland through sustained, focused and effective alignment of political, policy and industry effort.”

The draft Energy Bill includes measures necessary to reform the electricity market for secure, clean and affordable energy.