The Solar Trade Association (STA) has launched a new branch in Scotland.
The organisation claims it will be the “leading voice” for solar in the country and has been back by Fergus Ewing, Scottish minister for business energy and tourism.
“The launch of STA Scotland provides a valuable asset for Scotland as we work towards meeting our 2020 renewable energy target,” said Ewing. “STA Scotland will undoubtedly contribute to the Scottish Government’s target to generate the equivalent of 100% of Scotland’s electricity demand from renewable sources by 2020. Supporting solar energy is hugely important as it supports our economic strategy to work towards further social equality and the reduction in fuel poverty for the people of Scotland,” he added.
According to the STA, Scotland already has solar installs on 35,000 homes and 600 businesses with 25,000 hectares of south-facing commercial rooftop space available.
John Forster, chairman of Forster Energy has been appointed as chair of the new organisation.
“Scotland has been a great supporter of solar energy and the launch of STA Scotland is testament to this. I am proud to be working alongside the industry’s finest, to deliver a future for Scotland that will be able to reap the benefits of solar energy,” said Forster.