Scotland will have clear and consistent procedures to regulate revolutionary carbon cutting technology, Jim Mather said today.

The Scottish Government has introduced a Legislative Consent Motion to allow for the introduction of a common framework across the UK for carbon capture and storage.

The UK Energy Bill will create a regulatory regime so that carbon captured in power stations or industry can be stored safely under the seabed - cutting emissions by up to 90%.

Energy Minister Jim Mather said: "Carbon capture and storage has the potential to cut emissions from fossil fuels by 90% and offers a key new technology in the fight against climate change. It could make a significant contribution to our ambitious target of reducing emissions by 80% by 2050.

"Scotland already has massive potential - we have the infrastructure to store carbon in the North Sea and the scientific and engineering expertise in our oil and gas industry and our universities. That means we can take a world lead in developing this crucial technology.


"We need to get the right regulatory regime in place, and a licensing system consistent across the UK makes sense for industry. I'm pleased we have reached agreement with the UK Government for a common framework, which negates the need to legislate separately and would have been a poor use of the Scottish Parliament's time.

"Scottish Ministers will licence storage activity out to 12 nautical miles. And we will gain influence as the UK Government will have to consult Scottish Ministers for all licences between 12-200 nautical miles in Scottish waters. This is a mature and sensible approach to our energy policy and the right decision for Scotland's long term interests."

The Scottish Government and UK Government will work on a Memorandum of Understanding on implementing the common framework and expect to jointly consult on regulations for the licensing regime this summer.

Carbon capture and storage is a process consisting of the separation of carbon dioxide from industrial and energy-related sources, transport to a storage location and long-term isolation from the atmosphere.

The Legislative Consent Motion does not alter the Scottish Government's position with respect to the proposed Scottish Marine Bill and aspirations for further devolution in the offshore area.

(GK/JM)