A report published by energy firm SSE today claims that the firms onshore wind growth can add around £2.3 billion to the Scottish economy.
The report documents the expansion of SSE’s onshore wind portfolio over the past decade and the potential value added to the Scottish economy with the increase of 1,112 megawatts (MW).
SSE claims it has a committed spend, including capex and ongoing expenditure up to 2040, which employs 8,000 people directly and indirectly.
Paul Cooley, SSE’s director of generation development, said: “This report shows just what a positive impact our onshore wind portfolio has had, not just on the environment and on the economy, but on real people in their real lives.
“At SSE, maximising the social and economic impact of our wind farms is hugely important, especially in rural areas, where long-term skilled jobs and investment can support the long-term viability of remote communities.
“There is an opportunity to further grow onshore wind in Scotland and ensure that existing sites can be repowered with more efficient turbines. This will require planning policy and related public agencies to align with the objectives of the Scottish Energy Strategy, which is in the Scottish Government’s hands.”
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