Two-thirds of Scots power generated by turbine

WIND turbines generated enough energy to cover two-thirds of Scotland’s total electricity consumption last month, latest figures reveal.

WWF Scotland described the WeatherEnergy data as “amazing progress” and urged politicians to maximise renewable opportunities.

The data show the total electricity consumption from homes, business and industry in Scotland in February was 1,984,765 MWh.

Wind turbines contributed 1,331,420 MWh of electricity to the National Grid over the same time – enough to supply the average needs of all Scottish homes and up by 43 per cent on the total for February 2016, when wind energy provided 929,417 MWh.

WWF Scotland director Lang Banks said: “Thanks to a combination of increased capacity and stronger winds, output from turbines was up more than two-fifths compared to the same period last year.

“This was enough power to provide the equivalent of the electrical needs of almost four million homes.

“As well as helping to power our homes and businesses, wind power supports thousands of jobs and helps Scotland to avoid over a million tonnes of polluting carbon emissions every month.”

Each of the main political parties supports the aim of generating half of all Scotland’s energy needs from renewables by 2030, including heat, electricity and transport.

Mr Banks said: “With this level of political backing, we call upon all of the parties to now bring forward policies that will help maximise the benefits to Scotland’s economy, as we transition to a renewable future.”