Civils contractors have today warned that unless the Government adopt a sea-change in its approach to the renewables sector, the industry will “fall off a cliff”, costing jobs and growth, particularly in Scotland.
In its response to the Scottish Affairs Committee’s inquiry into renewable energy, the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) said that the UK Government’s current approach to the industry will result in a “near collapse of ongoing work” in the sector.
CECA has estimated that there is over £300m worth of civil engineering activity per annum in the Scottish renewable sector alone, directly employing over 3,000 people and supporting over 11,000 jobs. Research published by the Scottish Government has shown that renewable generation in Scotland is enough to power the equivalent of every household in that country.
The Association represents over 300 contractors of all sizes, covering approximately 80% of the UK’s civil engineering market.
Commenting, CECA Chief Executive Alasdair Reisner said:
“CECA has long argued that the UK Government must commit to a long-term energy strategy based on a diverse energy mix that does not deter badly-needed investment to enable a safe and secure energy supply.
“The UK Government’s policy of removing support for the renewables sector is extremely disappointing, as the sector had been making substantial progress towards cost efficiency during the lifetime of this Parliament.
“Policy changes to date will lead to substantial job losses within the industry and its supply chains. If those skills are lost, the challenge of rapidly reskilling the sector will be extremely costly.
“We call on the UK Government to reassess its approach to the renewables sector, adopt an evidence-based approach to renewables policy, and recognise the role it must play in providing the diverse energy portfolio the country needs.”
The Committee launched its inquiry to look at how the UK Government and the Scotland Office can maintain a stable renewables industry in Scotland and support future growth in the sector on 26th January. Deadline for written submissions is 19th February.
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