Scotland’s competitive advantage in green energy ought to be an important part of the economic case for independence when the second referendum takes place.
Green energy would be of particular mutual interest to Scotland and the EU, especially wind power, for which Scotland has the most favourable conditions in Europe. Scotland’s accession would be valuable to help the EU meet its goal of climate neutrality by 2050.
At least 25% of the EU’s long-term budget is to be dedicated to climate action, while the European Investment Bank, the EU’s lending arm, plans to invest €1 trillion in climate action and environmental sustainability between now and 2030.
Scotland’s wind power capacity is comparable with Italy and below only Germany, Spain and France. But more importantly, 97% of internal energy consumption in Scotland originates from renewables. The EU member with the highest green energy consumption is Sweden, with less than 60%. The EU total is only around 20%, so Scotland would immediately raise this share.
Any increase in Scotland’s wind energy production could also be diverted to supply the EU with green energy, further increasing its overall share. Yes there are limitations with the electrical interconnectors, but EU finance could be used to expand them.