Scotland’s food and farming sector faces significant threats. Climate change, the loss of pollinators, ecosystem degradation and the arrival of new invasive species are all taking their toll.
But solar energy will be a key part of the solution to these challenges, says trade body Solar Energy Scotland, ahead of the publication of the Scottish Government’s Energy Strategy and Just Transition Plan.
Decarbonisation – both internationally and here in Scotland – will be the key to future food security as climate change increasingly weakens international food supply chains. To support this, UK ministers have committed to 50 gigawatts of new solar capacity across the UK by 2030, with the Scottish Government having pledged to reach 4-6GW by the same date.[1]
Beyond cutting greenhouse gas emissions, solar farms can be safe havens for pollinators and play a substantial role in promoting biodiversity.[2] The International Union for the Conservation of Nature notes that land in the UK which moves from intensive grazing to solar projects supports the recovery of both flora and bird populations.[3]
Solar Energy Scotland estimates that 2.5GW of the 6GW planned for 2030 will be delivered through residential and business rooftop installations. The remaining 3.5GW will require a mere twentieth of 1% of Scotland’s land (0.05%) – less than a fifth of the area currently allocated to golf courses and less than the footprint of Scotland’s airports, according to official figures.
Solar installations also give farmers opportunities for economic diversification, providing a long-term and reliable income. The same land can also be used simultaneously for some agricultural purposes, including grazing sheep.
“Farming businesses are under intense economic pressure. Solar developments are a key part of the solution, reducing our impact on the climate while providing important diversification opportunities for farmers. Farming also has energy needs, like any industry, and we know of many farmers who see the opportunity to cut their costs and their emissions at the same time,” said Josh King, Chair of Solar Energy Scotland.
“Land used for solar projects can simultaneously support farming activities, especially grazing and also nature restoration. It is not a question of whether we must decarbonise the economy, it is simply a question of how. Solar is a flexible part of the solution, supporting economic and food security and creating a positive legacy of enhanced soil and biodiversity. Our members look forward to working with Scottish Ministers to deliver these benefits for Scotland,” he added.
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