Dear member

Last month Scottish Renewables and RenewableUK published a report, ‘Community Benefit in Action: Case Studies from the Onshore Wind Sector’, which showcases how onshore wind projects across the UK are transforming communities with meaningful benefit schemes.

Megan Amundson
Head of Onshore Wind & Consenting

News release: Scottish Renewables Chief Executive awarded OBE in The King's Birthday Honours 2025
 

Media reaction: UK's new Industrial Strategy prioritises growth in clean energy

On June 23, SR welcomed the UK Government’s new Industrial Strategy which sets out a 10-year plan to increase business investment. A Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan was also published to grow investment and good jobs in clean energy technologies.

Commenting, Claire Mack OBE said: “Scottish Renewables has been urging the UK Government to be bold in removing barriers to investment and we’re pleased to see the ambition outlined in this strategy, including measures to build a grid fit for the future, drive competitive supply chains and grow exports. All clean energy technologies, including marine energy, will have a role to play in that journey. 

“Working in lockstep with industry, the UK Government must demonstrate how it will be accountable to its new industrial strategy. Delivering on our ambitions will require a consistent, coordinated and clear approach to policymaking and financial support across all areas of government.” 

Updated SR communications

With increased volume of policy developments, we want to make it easier to stay up to date with Scottish Renewables’ (SR) communications are made easier to stay up to date. As part of our refreshed email designs, we have introduced a new Member Input Request email to consolidate calls for policy input. Now issued every Tuesday and Thursday, this email includes current consultations and opportunities for member feedback. 

At SR, the views of our members are invaluable and needed more than ever to shape the future of our industry. To ensure you are receiving relevant updates, please check your email preferences on the 'My Account' section of our website. We would also be grateful for your feedback on our communications activity by completing this short survey.

Meeting with the Deputy First Minister

Claire Mack and Jack Norquoy recently met the Deputy First Minister to discuss priorities of the offshore wind sector following the publication of the draft Sectoral Marine Plan for Offshore Wind Energy. Claire and Jack highlighted concerns about excessive precaution embedded in the draft assessments and advocated for the secondary legislation that is required to enable strategic compensation frameworks. SR is due to meet Kate Forbes MSP again later this summer.

North Sea roundtable with Minister Shanks

On June 19, Jack Norquoy represented SR at a roundtable in Aberdeen on the future of the North Sea with Minister Shanks and industry representatives. Hosted at the North Sea Transition Authority, the roundtable focused on themes raised in the recent consultation by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) which SR responded to. During the discussion, Jack highlighted SR’s priorities on Contracts for Difference reform and supply chain investment. 

Climate Change Committee at the Cross-Party Group 

Last month the Cross-Party Group on Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (SPREEE) hosted a presentation on Scotland’s Carbon Budgets by Dr Emily Nurse, Head of Net Zero at the Climate Change Committee. You can watch the presentation recording and access the slides on our website. 

SR and the Energy Saving Trust were reappointed as the secretariat at the Cross-Party Group's AGM, with Sarah Boyack MSP and Brian Whittle MSP re-elected as Co-Convenors. If you would like to join a mailing list for SPREEE, please complete this form or contact Amanda.

Ofgem plan to fast track NESO grid modification will reduce risk profile of clean energy projects

Following Ofgem’s announcement that it plans to fast track the NESO grid modification CMP447, SR issued a media reaction exclusively to reNews.

This was a very trade-specific media reaction which explained the complexities of CMP447 while highlighting how Ofgem’s decision means developers will no longer be liable for network expansion that occurs whether their project is built or not. The media reaction allowed to to demonstrate the impact of Ofgem's decision and the key role industry played.

Media enquiries

It’s been another busy month for the SR team, with national, regional, trade titles and even big hitters from the other side of the Atlantic taking an interest in our industry. 

USA Today will publish a special report on Scotland in the autumn and we arranged an interview with Claire to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing Scotland's renewable energy industry. Keep your eyes peeled in the coming months for the Scotland report which will also feature key figures from Scotland including John Swinney MSP, First Minister of Scotland. 

Other notable media enquiries came from the Press and Journal who contacted us about a feature on the key risks posed by potential Russian aggression in the North Sea. Andrew MacNish-Porter spoke to Stephen Dunne at reNews about possible reform to the Contracts for Difference (CfD) scheme while Morag Watson spoke to Vicky Allan at The Herald to address numerous claims made by an anti-wind campaign in Skye. 

Media support

The Communications team at SR is always on hand to help its members with media opportunities. If your business would like support with its media relations, please email Ewan. 

Long Duration Electricity Storage (LDES) Project Assessment consultation

On May 28, Ofgem published a consultation on its proposed approach for assessing which LDES projects should be awarded a cap and floor regime. Our response highlighted the need for greater clarity in the economic, strategic and financial assessments to ensure the cap and floor regime supports the deployment of LDES.

We also emphasised the importance of a transparent framework that recognises the unique characteristics of LDES technologies such as pumped storage hydro to capture the full value of projects applying for cap and floor support.

If you have any questions, please contact Andrew. 

Separate clearing price for Scottish offshore wind projects in CfD AR7

SR has written to the UK Government to express support in principle for a separate clearing price to be introduced for Scottish offshore wind projects in Allocation Round 7 (AR7). We expect the UK Government to confirm whether this change will be implemented when auction parameters are published in July. If you have any questions, please contact Andrew. 

CMP447 granted Urgency status by Ofgem

On June 13, Ofgem granted Urgency status to the code modification CMP447. The modification seeks to remove designated, strategic works from cancellation charges/securitisation. As a result, a wide range of projects will no longer be financially liable for the build out of strategic transmission works that CMP447 granted Urgency status by Ofgem have already been classified as strategic and needed by the regulator.

SR worked closely with Ofgem and the National Energy System Operator’s (NESO) over the past year to highlight the positive impact that CMP447 would have for Scottish projects. The decision means it will now be developed in line with the issuing of Gate 2 offers later this year. If you would like to receive regular updates on the modification development, please email Holly. 

Energy code reform: code manager licence conditions and code modification appeals to the Competition & Markets Authority (CMA) consultation

On May 1, Ofgem and DESNZ published a consultation on code manager licence conditions and code modification appeals to the Competition & Markets Authority (CMA), as part of the wider energy code reform. Scottish Renewables submitted a response, reiterating concerns around conflict of interests for code managers and retaining expertise on security of the network in the new structure. 

For any question on this consultation, contact Holly.

What the CUSC! Understanding the CUSC and how you can influence it 

On June 25, SR held a webinar led by Binoy Dharsi, CUSC Panel member and Senior Advisor on Policy and Regulation for EDF, on understanding the Connection and Use of System Code (CUSC). The CUSC is the framework by which our national electricity system is governed and the set of rules underpinning all contractual agreements to the network.

Watch the webinar recording or access webinar slides on our website.

Regional Energy Strategic Plan (RESP) Forum for Scotland

On June 26, SR attended NESO's Regional Energy Strategic Plan (RESP) forum for Scotland.

The forum covered several key areas, including: 

• tRESP Update – Progress and next steps shared. 
• Regional Context – Discussion on regional energy needs and planning. 
• Strategic Investment – Insights into current and future investment priorities. 
• Wider RESP Activity – Updates on broader programme developments. 
• Strategic Energy Planning – Overview of ongoing planning initiatives. 

If you have any questions, please contact Stephen. 

Blog: Lighting Up the Highlands - A journey through the Highland grid

Stephen McKellar recently attended the official launch of SSE Heritage’s remarkable new book, Highland Grid: The Story of Power Transmission in the North, which tells the story of one of the most extraordinary feats of infrastructure in the north of Scotland.  

Read Stephen’s blog, Lighting up the Highlands: a journey through the Highland grid, which reflects on the book and gives insights into the legacy of the Highland Grid and what it means for the future of the UK’s electricity network.  

News release: Supply chain boost as wind industry backs revamped Pathfinder

On June 17, the UK’s energy supply chain received a major boost after SR and RenewableUK (RUK) provided input and support towards an improved an online platform for advertising lucrative contracts.

The North Sea Transition Authority’s (NSTA) Energy Pathfinder portal has been revamped with the support of SR and RUK who are now actively encouraging members, alongside the Scottish Offshore Wind Energy Council and the Offshore Wind Industry Council, to promote contracting opportunities for wind energy projects on the platform.

Commenting, Emma Harrick said: “Scottish Renewables has worked closely with the Energy Pathfinder team and our members to tailor the portal for our industry. The portal now provides on and offshore wind businesses with clear visibility of available tender invitations while enabling developers to connect with a broader network of local companies.” 

Clean Power 2030 – Supply Chain and Workforce Industry Forum

Emma Harrick attended the second meeting of the Clean Power 2030 Supply Chains and Workforce Industry Forum. The session was focussed on reviewing the key challenges identified by the forum and discussed wider topics, such as the role of tier 1 contractors, circular economy practices, transition skills initiatives and global risks to the supply chain.

Emma highlighted the importance of supporting Scottish SMEs and ports as well as the pressing need to deliver solutions for the current regulatory challenges on offshore wind worker visas. If you have any questions about the forum, please contact Emma.

Exports survey

SR is seeking responses to our Renewable Energy Products and Services Export Survey to help us assess the export activities of the businesses in Scotland who are providing renewable energy products and services around the world.

Please submit your response to the survey by 5pm on Friday, August 1.

The Scottish Green Energy Supply Chain Awards

The Scottish Green Energy Supply Chain Awards 2025 will return to Aberdeen on August 21. 

The awards celebrate the people at the heart of the industry who make the deployment of billion-pound renewable energy projects possible. From cable suppliers, data analysts and safety teams, to consultants, lawyers and hauliers, the eight award categories recognise the dedication  and innovation of those delivering specialist work across all technologies. 

Book your ticket now.

Planning and Environmental Appeals Division (DPEA) Guidance Note

On June 13, SR provided to the DPEA on a draft guidance note related to community hearings. This was an informal consultation and follows the previous consultation by the DPEA on guidance note 23a, which has since been updated and published. 

Dumfries and Galloway local development plan evidence report

On June 25, SR responded to the consultation on Dumfries and Galloway Council’s local development plan evidence report. The evidence report had been submitted to DPEA to be gate checked and was sent back with instructions to consult with industry.  

Following this, Dumfries and Galloway Council has released a consultation on a draft Landscape Sensitivity Study for Small Turbines. SR is considering a letter to express concern about the impact this may have on future onshore wind development.

Planning appeals fees go into effect

On June 9, the second phase of changes to planning fees went into effect: 

• 3.3% inflation-linked increase to planning application fees 
• The introduction of fees for local reviews 
• The introduction of fees for appeals to Scottish Ministers 

Planning Circulars 2/2025 and 3/2025 have been published to provide advice and guidance on the changes to fees. The ePlanning fee calculator has also been updated with the new fee levels and to include local review and appeal fees.

Concerns about the fees have been outlined in a memo by Shepherd and Wedderburn. If you have any questions, please contact contact Megan.

Planning & Consents Policy Update Webinar

On June 18, SR held the quarterly Policy Update Webinar for planning and consents which now addresses planning concerns for all technologies. The webinar provided insights into recent changes to the planning system, upcoming consultations and local development plans.

Access the webinar slides on our website.

Onshore Wind Data Collection

SR and RUK have been asked by the Clean Power 2030 Unit at DESNZ to support a data collection exercise from our onshore wind members. On June 26, SR reached out to members with a cover letter, Non-Disclosure Agreement and a data template prepared by DESNZ.

SR and RUK held a joint webinar on July 10 to discuss this data collection effort and wider updates on the Onshore Wind Taskforce Strategy which was joined by Chris Stark CBE, Head of Mission Control for Clean Power 2030. Access the webinar slides on our website.

Onshore Wind Conference

The Onshore Wind Conference, co-organised by Scottish Renewables and RenewableUK, returns to Edinburgh this September - bigger than ever. 

Join us for two days of knowledge-sharing, collaboration and practical insights as we bring together leading onshore wind experts and key stakeholders. From upgrades to the electricity network and planning system reforms to evolving biodiversity approaches, routes to market and supply chain strategies, don't miss your chance to attend.

Exhibition sales and delegate bookings now open.

Scottish Offshore Wind Pipeline Analysis report published

SR commissioned BVG Associates (BVGA) to undertake an analysis report of Scotland’s offshore wind pipeline, which reiterates how central Scottish projects are to the UK and Scottish government’s clean power ambitions. The analysis also highlights the significant opportunities these projects could offer to the supply chain. 

Whilst it is not possible to predict the precise timing of future offshore wind deployment, this report demonstrates the scale of opportunity to Scotland’s economy if projects are successfully enabled by appropriate policy, regulation and financial support.

Urgent need for consultation on the Scottish Marine Recovery Fund (MRF)

In a recent letter to the Scottish Government, SR highlighted offshore wind developers’ continued commitment and the urgent need for consultation on the Scottish MRF. Concerns raised over the UK Government’s recent proposals for England and Wales underscore the need for a dedicated Scottish mechanism. We welcome plans for a consultation and remain ready to support efforts to launch this as soon as possible. Read SR’s response to Defra MRF consultation on our website.

Floating Offshore Wind 2025

Scottish Renewables and RenewableUK's Floating Offshore Wind 2025 returns to Aberdeen on November 12 & 13.

With more than 25GW in the pipeline, the UK’s floating offshore wind sector is at a critical juncture. As industry navigates highs and lows, bold action is required to maintain momentum and deliver the projects critical to our clean energy future.

Join us as we bring industry leaders and key stakeholders together to explore solution-driven, tangible actions that will accelerate floating offshore wind deployment. 

Exhibition sales and delegate bookings now open.

Hydrogen Production Business Model Stakeholder Forum questionnaire

As members of the Hydrogen Production Business Model (HPBM) Stakeholder Forum, SR received an update from DESNZ stating that the HPBM will not support exports of derivatives made from HPBM-subsidised hydrogen if intended for reconversion to hydrogen.

However, the HPBM will continue to allow derivatives (containing HPBM-subsidised hydrogen) to be exported for use in feedstock, such as fertiliser production, or as a low carbon fuel. If you have any questions, please contact Maggie.

Green Hydrogen Seminar

Scottish Renewables is pleased to announce our Green Hydrogen Seminar will be held on August 27 in Glasgow. 

Join us for a packed, one-day event to learn: 

• How industry and governments can coordinate to establish Scotland’s leading role in the development of green hydrogen. 
• Where green hydrogen demand lies across the new energy system and how it integrates with other technologies. 
• How demand for green hydrogen can be incentivised now to enable scalable projects before 2035. 
• Which projects are already moving forward and what they have learned along the way. 

Book your place at the member rate. 

Letter to the Cabinet Secretary for Housing

Following Màiri McAllan’s appointment on June 12 as Cabinet Secretary for Housing with responsibility for heat in buildings, SR issued a letter with six recommendations to support the deployment of low-carbon heat. These included: 

• Commit two more funding rounds for Scotland’s Heat Network Fund to provide vital project lead capital support. 
• Create a new payment structure for the Home Energy Scotland Loan and Grant Scheme to support heat pump installers. 

We will work closely with the new Cabinet Secretary on the revised Heat in Buildings Bill and wider measures to support heat networks ahead of the 2026 Scottish Elections.

UK Solar Roadmap published

On June 30, DESNZ published the Solar Roadmap which sets out the steps needed for the government and industry to deliver 45-47GW of solar by 2030.

The roadmap outlines 72 actions for accelerating the rollout of solar across the UK which are divided into six categories: rooftop solar, electricity networks, supply chain and innovations, skills, planning and working with others. For any questions, please contact Morag.