Green energy could create 16,000 jobs

Published Date: 14 May 2009
By JENY HAWORTH

THE number of jobs in renewables in Scotland could increase more than fivefold in the next decade.
A Scottish Government report reveals there are already 3,000 jobs in renewables north of the Border, and that the sector has the potential to support at least 16,000 more in ten years. It is also estimated in Economic Benefits of Energy that about 10,000 jobs will come from the development of clean fossil fuels and carbon capture and storage. Jim Mather, the energy minister, said the jobs in energy will help with Scotland's economic recovery. "The Scottish Government is determined to respond positively to the global downturn by creating the conditions for a strong recovery," he said."The energy sector in Scotland is uniquely placed to lead that recovery."