The SNP Government has tried to rekindle hopes of a renewables jobs boom as the wait for ministers to finalise an energy strategy drags on

John Swinney has renewed discredited claims that green energy could power Scotland to prosperity in a cynical bid to breathe fresh life into the independence campaign as it enters a crucial six months.

The first minister trotted out the line about the prospect of a renewable energy bonanza in Scotland beloved by predecessors in a speech to galvanize the faithful as the SNP bids to secure a majority at Holyrood in the elections scheduled for May.

After getting drubbed by Labour in last year’s Westminster general election, the SNP must tackle the populist challenges posed by Reform UK.

“Just like oil and renewables rich Norway, Scotland has been blessed twice,” claimed Mr Swinney.

“We may have missed out on the full benefit of our oil and gas bonanza, but with our vast, low-cost renewable energy resource, Scotland has a second chance to get it right.”

The comments were made in a speech to launch the “It’s Scotland’s energy” campaign.

While Mr Swinney cultivates the image of a sober statesman, the speech showed he is as willing as noisier FMs such as Alex Salmond to play to the cheap seats for his political purposes.

It was made as the SNP Government tried to respond to major setbacks in its lacklustre drive to secure a just transition from fossil fuel dependence.

Read more

Mr Swinney claims Scotland needs to be freed from the dead hand of Westminster if it is to make the most of its self-evident potential.

However, the setbacks have raised fresh doubts about whether low carbon energy will provide the economic boost........

© Herald Scotland