The Fraser of Allander Institute at the University of Strathclyde reports that offshore wind continues to be the renewable energy technology supporting the most employment in Scotland's economy, accounting for 19,580 full-time equivalent jobs. Onshore wind supports 16,865 jobs, while renewable heat supports 4,095.

According to the same data, offshore wind also generated the highest economic output, contributing over £6.8 billion, followed by onshore wind (£6.4 billion) and hydropower (£1.4 billion).

The Fraser of Allander Institute’s report assessed the economic impact of the renewable energy industry, including its wider benefits through supply chain activity and spending within the Scottish economy.

The sector’s scale was estimated using data from the UK’s Office for National Statistics (ONS), due to the lack of detailed official data from the UK or Scottish governments. The 2022 results should be viewed as a standalone snapshot, rather than a long-term trend. However, they demonstrate the strong and sustained economic performance of the renewable energy sector in Scotland.

Claire Mack, Chief Executive of Scottish Renewables, stated: “This report from the Fraser of Allander Institute provides a valuable overview of the economic contribution our members are making as we move towards a future powered by clean, homegrown renewables. It reflects our understanding of sector activity across development, construction, and the operation of major projects like the Moray East offshore wind farm and the Viking onshore wind farm.”

Professor Mairi Spowage, Director of the Fraser of Allander Institute, added: “We’ve observed a significant shift in economic activity associated with the renewable energy sector in 2022, as more capacity has come online and the focus has moved from construction to generation. These changes are reshaping the nature of the supply chains they support—something we expect to continue as the industry matures.”