The Scottish Government is making a compelling case for closer cooperation with Europe to reduce energy bills and stimulate investment.
In anticipation of upcoming UK Government talks with the EU, the Scottish Government has unveiled a report that identifies several opportunities for enhanced alignment with the European Union on energy matters.
Key proposals in the report include:
- Accelerating Efficient UK-EU Electricity Trading: The report emphasises the need to adopt more efficient electricity trading arrangements between the UK and EU, which could significantly lower energy costs for consumers.
- Linking UK and EU Emissions Trading Schemes (ETS): By connecting the UK and EU ETS, the Scottish Government aims to reduce costs and eliminate trade barriers, fostering a more seamless and cost-effective exchange.
Gillian Martin, Acting Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy, commented:
“As we approach the fifth anniversary of Brexit, the costs to the people of Scotland are becoming ever clearer.
“The best future for Scotland is to be a member state of the EU. But we will always be a voice for closer co-operation with our fellow Europeans – in particular around issues which impact us all such as lowering energy bills and driving up investment in renewables.
“This paper highlights the key areas where working together is vital for achieving our shared ambitions - driving economic growth, reducing costs, strengthening energy security and substantially contributing to our shared climate goals.
“We have a pivotal role to play and stand ready to work collaboratively with the UK Government and wider partners to re-build a closer relationship with Europe in this space.”
The urgency of these proposals is underscored by estimates from the UK energy industry, which predict that failure to move toward closer UK-EU cooperation on energy and climate could result in additional costs of up to £10 billion in 2024-25. These costs would manifest as higher energy bills for consumers and reduced Treasury revenues.
While the Scottish Government continues to advocate for Scotland to become an EU member state, the report focuses on immediate actions that can rebuild closer collaboration with the EU on energy and climate matters. These measures are seen as crucial steps to mitigating the adverse effects of Brexit on the energy sector.
The report's publication is timely, as it aligns with broader discussions about the future of UK-EU relations. By prioritising closer energy ties, the Scottish Government hopes to create a more resilient and efficient energy market that benefits both consumers and the economy.
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