MSPs open energy security inquiry
The Scottish Parliament’s Economy, Energy and Tourism Committee will be assessing the security of Scotland’s energy supply. It will focus on the needs of Scotland in a changing market and assess supply and demand together with modes of transmission.
MSP’s on the Committee have called for feedback. Convener of the Committee Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“The security of Scotland’s energy supply has been brought into urgent focus due to the recent developments at Longannet. It is imperative that this inquiry starts a debate in Scotland about how we can secure Scotland’s energy supply and looks at the implications of the likely early closure of Longannet.”
“There are a number of wider issues at play here from the move away from fossil fuels to renewable energy, significant reform to the UK electricity market as well as the capability of the UK transmission network to meet demand.”
“It is the role of this committee to establish the facts, question the experts, and scrutinise the actions of the UK and Scottish Governments, who all have a responsibility to secure Scotland’s supply.”
It has welcomed feedback on the following:
1. Is there sufficient generation to meet demand?
2. Are there sufficient procedures in place to move from fossil fuels to renewables?
3. How predicable are current demand peaks?
4. What role will the new transmission networks have in securing electricity supply and where should future investment be directed?