The Scottish Government is maintaining support for larger-scale solar farm projects until next year despite the UK Government ending its backing for such developments.
The move could boost investor confidence in solar farm schemes of up to five megawatts covering land of up to 25 acres that are in the pipeline.
The UK Government is closing the Renewables Obligation subsidy scheme for installations of less than five megawatts, enough to power 2,500 homes.
It believes householders have been unfairly footing the bill for the subsidies and that ending the scheme will lower electricity bills.
The renewable energy industry opposes the move, believing that ending subsidies will threaten thousands of jobs and the sector’s viability.
Yesterday the Scottish Government confirmed that solar projects of up to five megawatts will continue to receive support for the time being.
The UK Government wants to exclude such schemes from the policy that guarantees the same level of support for the lifetime of the project, known as grandfathering.
The Scottish Government is using devolved powers to retain the status quo until the closure of the Renewables Obligation in April next year.
Energy Minister Fergus Ewing said: “The UK Government’s decision to slash support for renewables is misplaced and actively discourages investment in clean energy.
“The industry needs clarity and certainty to allow decisions to be taken. I will do what I can to support the 3,000 solar jobs in Scotland that are under threat.”
John Forster of Brechin, chairman of Solar Trade Association Scotland, said: “This shows that the Scottish Government is committed to solar providing as much as possible of its 100% renewables target for Scotland.
“Solar projects in Scotland now know what level of support they are going to get, and that they will get it for the full 20 years.
“It won’t be possible to cut support for Scottish projects down the line in, for example, year 15 of 20.”
He said solar businesses could now plan ahead and focus efforts on Scottish projects in the pipeline.