Dozens of Scottish business leaders, trade unions and industry groups are urging Holyrood candidates to put political divisions aside and commit to a long-term energy security strategy ahead of the May 7 Scottish Parliament election.
Scottish Renewables has launched its new Scottish Energy Pledge, calling for cross-party backing for policies that strengthen domestic energy production, expand renewables and grid infrastructure, and support jobs and investment.
Backers include former Aberdeen Asset Management chief executive Martin Gilbert, Balmoral Group chairman Sir James Milne, Offshore Energies UK and Scottish Chambers of Commerce.
The pledge argues Scotland’s future energy system should be built on a balanced approach that recognises the role of renewables, oil and gas, advanced manufacturing and regional regeneration.
Claire Mack, Chief Executive of Scottish Renewables, said: “Scotland’s energy industry represents a defining economic opportunity, with our geographic strengths placing us at the heart of the UK’s future energy mix.”
She added: “This pledge reflects the clear ambition of Scotland’s business community to help deliver an affordable, secure and resilient energy system.”
Scottish Renewables says this will require faster renewable deployment, expanded grid capacity and reforms to transmission charges to better encourage Scottish investment.
David Whitehouse, Chief Executive of Offshore Energies UK, also backed the initiative, calling for a pragmatic strategy that supports both domestic oil and gas and renewable energy expansion.
He said: “Energy security, jobs and investment all depend on stable policy and a serious commitment to homegrown supply.”
Scottish Chambers of Commerce echoed those concerns, stressing that businesses need confidence in infrastructure, supply chains and grid capacity to remain competitive.
Supporters say the pledge is designed to demonstrate broad economic backing for an integrated energy policy that secures Scotland’s industrial future while reducing political division over energy strategy.
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