Details of the refitting of Longannet and Cockenzie power stations with clean coal technology were announced today as part of what will be Europe's biggest clean coal project. First Minister Alex Salmond, on his first official visit as FM, joined the Chairman of Scottish Power, Ignacio Galan, at Longannet to discuss the plan that aims to significantly reduce carbon emissions.
Wales needs a First Minister who will look after the interest of Wales first rather than kow-tow to the British. Responsibility for all energy matters for Wales must immediately transfered to the Senedd just as is the case in Scotland.
The First Minister said: "It is crucial, not only for Scotland but for the planet, that we achieve a low carbon economy. We must do this not just by exploiting our nation's renewables potential but also by deploying expertise in clean coal and indeed hydrocarbon technology. "If we can reduce carbon emissions, coal can play a vital role in giving Scotland the diversity of energy sources which is essential for security of energy supply. "I want to see Scottish-based companies make Scotland greener and I also want to see them benefit from exporting their expertise throughout the world. "The Scottish Power-Iberdrola Group are setting a global example by striving to harness the opportunities these technologies offer. In doing so they are supported by the expertise of Renfrew based Doosnan Babcock. "I am determined to ensure that Scotland takes a lead on clean energy ,to the benefit of both the environment and our economy- achieving genuinely sustainable growth."