http://www.energyefficiencynews.com/articles/i/5577/?cid=3

The Scottish Government's target of generating 100% renewable electricity by 2020 is achievable but only if a number of issues are addressed, according to a report by the Parliament's Economy, Energy and Tourism Committee.

If these issues, which include a lack of the necessary skills, the planning process, certainty for investors and access to necessary levels of financing, are left unattended, says the Committee, there is a risk that the target might be missed.

"After a wide ranging inquiry, taking extensive evidence, our Committee has concluded that the electricity target can be achieved but only if the issues outlined in this report are acted upon. Our recommendations are crucial to the success of the renewables industry in Scotland, and focus on issues such as access to finance, the planning system, infrastructure development and investment in skills," says Murdo Fraser, convener of the Committee.

Some of the issues to be tackled, such as the shortage of young people taking up subjects like engineering, maths and science, will require "concerted efforts" by governments on both sides of the border.

"The overwhelming message from investors was that strong leadership, and a robust and reliable investment climate and subsidy regime is critical for the targets to be met," adds Fraser.

The report also hits back at criticism, like that from US entrepreneur Donald Trump who has been waging a much-publicised campaign against a 100-turbine offshore wind farm that will spoil the view from his favourite golf course, that renewables are damaging Scotland's world-renown natural beauty.

According to the report, no "robust, empirical evidence" was presented to the Committee that renewables projects are having a negative effect on tourism.

The report is a "welcome boost" for the region's renewable ambitions, says environmental group WWF Scotland.

"It was clear from the beginning that the 100% electricity target is eminently achievable and this inquiry has provided cross party confirmation. We must now move beyond debate and build on the strong progress to date, to overcome the challenges and realise the huge opportunities available," says the group's policy officer Sam Gardner.