AN energy network operator has revealed plans to help cities, towns and rural communities across Scotland achieve net-zero emissions.
SP Energy Networks, ScottishPower’s electricity grid across Central and Southern Scotland, unveiled the plans following the Government’s announcement of ambitious targets to cut emissions to zero by 2045.
Tonight, Scotland’s most iconic landmarks will turn green in support of net-zero emissions – including Edinburgh Castle, Glasgow’s Riverside Museum, Dumfries Museum and Melrose Abbey in the Scottish Borders.
The switch-on will coincide with SP Energy Networks hosting an awards event at Edinburgh’s Dynamic Earth to present £10 million funding to projects selected for investment through its Green Economy Fund. The funding boost will benefit 21 projects including e-bike and e-bus schemes, low-carbon energy systems, community hubs and renewable energy training courses across Scotland.
Frank Mitchell, chief executive of SP Energy Networks, said: “Becoming net zero offers Scotland a huge economic opportunity. The road to 2045 will mean many everyday activities will decarbonise and switch to all-electric technologies and it’s essential for businesses and communities to start planning now for the transition to a cleaner and greener future.”
“Through the Green Economy Fund, SP Energy Networks is investing £20m in Scottish projects that support low-carbon heating, electrification of transport and the education of a renewables workforce for a greener future. We’re encouraging businesses, local authorities and public bodies in Scotland to follow suit and ramp up their investment in the green economy.”
One of the projects to receive funding is PeddleSMART, an e-bike research and development facility that is testing new technology such as e-bin bikes, heated food delivery bikes and e-tandems in Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Adam Reid, CEO at PeddleSMART said the investment is a “huge boost to Scotland’s green economy”.
PeddleSMART was awarded as part of the second round of funding provided by the Green Economy Fund. Other projects to receive support include a low-carbon energy system in Kilmarnock and transport electrification across Scotland.
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