Fourth Report - Renewable energy in Scotland

The government acknowledges the committee's positive outlook, explaining that its Net Zero Strategy, published in October 2021, outlines measures to achieve climate goals and create green jobs across the UK, including Scotland, through existing mechanisms like the Contracts for Difference scheme.

The government states that network regulation is a matter for Ofgem and highlights Ofgem's existing RIIO-2 price control framework, which already focuses on enabling strategic investment in the grid to support net zero ambitions.

The government acknowledges the importance of transmission charging arrangements but defers to Ofgem's ongoing call for evidence on reforms, stating that next steps will be announced later.

The government acknowledges the committee's view on transmission charges but defers to Ofgem's ongoing call for evidence on reforms, with next steps expected to be announced later this quarter.

The government defers to Ofgem's ongoing call for evidence on transmission charging reforms, stating that Ofgem will announce next steps later this quarter, without committing to the specific review or publication timeline requested.

The government rejects amending Ofgem’s statutory duties, stating that Ofgem's current duty already covers emissions reduction, and it plans to introduce a Strategy and Policy Statement (SPS) to provide legally binding strategic guidance on net-zero responsibilities.

The government acknowledges the need for CfD scheme design to evolve for maximum benefit and states that views from a recent call for evidence are being factored into future policy design, but doesn't explicitly commit to prioritising net zero targets and best value in the *next* CfD round.

The government acknowledges tidal stream's potential but states it must reduce costs to compete. It notes tidal stream is CfD eligible and is currently evaluating material from a call for evidence on marine energy, without committing to guaranteed financial support.

The government acknowledges the importance of green jobs and outlines its existing Net Zero Strategy and Contracts for Difference scheme, which aim to create jobs and support renewable energy across the UK, including Scotland.

The government acknowledges its commitment to green investment and job creation through the Net Zero Strategy and Ten Point Plan, stating that existing mechanisms like the Contracts for Difference scheme already benefit Scotland, but does not commit to specifically allocating a portion of the £12 billion for direct investment in Scottish renewable energy projects.