A MAJOR boost to expand renewable energy projects in the agricultural sector was announced yesterday by Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead, through the development of an Agri-Renewables Strategy.
Speaking at the Black Isle Show, Mr Lochhead explained the new Agri-Renewables Strategy will “ensure that land managers can benefit from the renewables revolution and unlock the green energy potential of their land”.
Mr Lochhead said: “Scotland is currently experiencing a renewables revolution and I want to see farmers, crofters and land managers working with local communities to ensure they grasp the benefits for their businesses and the nation.
“The renewables revolution offers our farmers and land-based industries the opportunity to cut energy costs, generate new income and contribute to our low carbon future. The list of benefits is endless.
“However, we are all on a steep learning curve and need to quickly learn to take advantage of the industry’s increasing enthusiasm.
“We need to get our heads around the various challenges as well as the opportunities.
“Issues such as funding, planning, accessing grid connections, choosing the best technology, and so on, are all topics that farmers and others wish to see addressed in a well-thought-out strategy.”
The minister added: “The Agri-Renewables Strategy will be developed in co-operation with industry representatives and will build on the Scottish Government’s existing renewables activity in the agricultural sector.
“I look forward to having the new strategy in place by summer next year at the latest.”
NFU Scotland welcomed the announcement and the Scottish Government’s recognition that planning and grid connections had been identified as key challenges for farmers and land managers.
NFUS president Nigel Miller said: “The Scottish Government’s manifesto commitment to develop this strategy and, in particular, to simplify the planning process, were spot on. Scottish farmers and crofters have already contributed a great deal in terms of cutting carbon emissions and installing the means of producing renewable energy on their land, however, inconsistencies and constraints in the planning system mean that many farmers are struggling to get their energy projects off the ground.
“The ambitious target to be able to produce 100% of our electricity demand equivalent from renewable sources by 2020 could be attainable, but we need a clear steer from the Scottish Government in setting out nationwide planning guidance and priorities for those applying for and approving renewable projects.”
UNITED Auctions sold 585 store bullocks at Stirling on Wednesday to a top of 217.5p per kg and an average of 181.5p (+4.7p on the week), while 288 store heifers peaked at 216.3p and levelled at 180.7p (+3.8p).
In the rough ring, 184 cast cows averaged 123.3p.
The firm also sold 1320 store sheep.
Top prices and averages for store lambs: SuffolkX £72.50 & £68.45 (+£5.40 on the year), TexelX £72 & £67.11 (+£4.96), Mules £70.50 & £62.53 (+£4.35) and Blackfaces £62 & £60.28.
