Holyrood Green Inquiry

A Green MSP has ordered a Holyrood inquiry into the impact of cuts to the green energy sector.

The UK government recently announced onshore windfarm development subsidies will be scrapped from April, one year earlier than planned.

Payments for solar will also be phased out, whilst Vehicle Excise Duty is switching to a flat rate.

The Green Deal and Zero Carbon Homes plans will also come to an end shortly.

Patrick Harvie MSP said: "I have written to the conveners of Holyrood's Economy, Energy and Tourism Committee, and the Rural Affairs, Climate Change and Environment Committee, urging them to consider a joint piece of work to understand how these UK Government decisions will impact on Scotland. David Cameron famously said he wanted to 'cut the green crap' but there is a real danger that Scottish economic opportunities will be lost as a result, and our efforts to meet renewable energy and climate change targets will be harmed.

"Crucially, it is important to establish what scope the Scottish Parliament has for taking a different direction from the anti-green agenda at Westminster. Rather than appearing helpless, Holyrood should be informed of the options available to keep our low-carbon ambitions on track."