CONSERVATIONISTS have teamed up with the green energy industry to demand the Scottish Government sets a new target to ensure half of the country’s power comes from renewables by 2030.

WWF Scotland and trade body Scottish Renewables made the call following what they believe has been a “landmark” year for Scottish renewable energy thanks to world firsts, record setting and innovation.

Among the milestone achievements in 2016 were the creation of the world’s first fully operational tidal power turbines off Shetland, wind turbines generating more electricity in a day than would cover Scotland’s daily usage for the first time on record, and pioneering plans for kite power stations and floating wind farms. WWF Scotland director Lang Banks said: “2016 was a landmark year for renewables in Scotland, with several world firsts achieved, new records set, and amazing innovation shown.

“With almost three-fifths of our electricity needs now being met from renewable sources, Scotland is truly blazing a trail globally for pollution-free power.

“However, following the ratification of the Paris climate agreement, we can and should go much further. Analysis has shown that a 50 per cent renewables target for all our energy needs by 2030 is needed and achievable.

“Ministers should now make this a Scottish Government target and bring in the policies needed in its forthcoming energy strategy.”

Jenny Hogan, director of policy at Scottish Renewables, echoed his call, saying the new target would bring further economic and environmental benefits.

Scottish Green energy spokesman Mark Ruskell said the proposed target “must feature” in the new energy strategy.

He said: “This call will increase the pressure not just on the Scottish Government, but on other opposition parties to match the Scottish Greens’ ambition.

“We can see the support for this target is growing. It would create more jobs, reduce climate change emissions and air pollution, and cut fuel poverty.”

Energy Minister Paul Wheelhouse said the Government will publish a draft energy strategy and climate change plan in 2017, with a vision for the future of energy in Scotland.