Green energy generation meets almost 50% of Scots' electricity needs in 2013 – a new record

Scotland's green energy record was broken in 2013 – as new figures show wind, hydro, solar, and biomass generated enough electricity to meet 46.5% of the country's needs.

Information provided by the Department of Energy and Climate Change shows that low carbon generation – renewables and nuclear power together – now provides around two thirds of the country's electricity mix.

Joss Blamire, Senior Policy Manager at Scottish Renewables, said: "Even today, many people do not realise the massive contribution renewables make to powering our homes and businesses and reducing our carbon emissions.

"These UK Government figures show that, alongside nuclear, renewables are the biggest provider of electricity in the country, with 2013 our best-ever year.

"The report goes to show what can be achieved when industry and government work together towards our ambitious 2020 renewable energy targets.

"However, at a time of some change and uncertainty, government and industry must remain focused on these shared goals if the sector is to continue to provide increasing economic, environmental and social benefits to Scotland."