Why wind is important
Global climate change is expected to bring substantial social, environmental, and economic consequences. The release of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, is driving this change. Among the impacts are rising sea levels and a greater frequency of extreme weather events, which threaten the vital ecosystems that sustain life on Earth.
Climate Change Policy
The Government is dedicated to ensuring that 15% of all energy consumption comes from renewable sources by 2020. To reach this target, 30% of electricity will need to be produced from renewable resources.
The UK is committed to lowering greenhouse gas emissions to address climate change. This can be achieved by using energy more efficiently and generating electricity from sustainable and renewable sources, such as wind and solar power.
Renewable energy
As many nuclear and coal power stations constructed in the 1970s and 80s near the end of their operational lifespans due to age and stricter emissions regulations, it is essential to adopt low-carbon methods of electricity generation to meet the country’s increasing energy demands.
Onshore wind is the most cost-effective form of renewable energy and a well-established technology. Wind turbines operate about 80-85% of the time, efficiently converting wind power into electricity without the thermal waste associated with fossil fuel plants.
Increasing turbine capacities
Since the construction of Scotland’s first commercial wind farm, turbine capacities have grown by more than 550%. This significant increase, along with technological advancements, has led to a 15-fold boost in the electricity produced by each turbine.
A single 3.4 MW commercial-scale turbine can now generate enough electricity to power nearly 2,800 homes at an average site in Scotland.
Since 2014, renewable energy has been the primary source of electricity generation in the country.
Onshore Wind Supporting Jobs
Onshore wind energy supports 5,400 full-time jobs in Scotland, and in 2015, onshore wind projects contributed over £8.8 million in community benefits to local communities across the country.
