TOGETHER SCOTLAND IS SET TO BENEFIT FROM ENERGY SAVINGS.

TOGETHER SCOTLAND IS SET TO BENEFIT FROM ENERGY SAVINGS.

SNP GOVERNMENT SAVING PUBLIC MONEY TO PROTECT & CREATE JOBS

SNP MSP John Wilson – a member of the Scottish Parliament’s Communities & Local Government Committee – has welcomed a new deal with Scottish electricity companies that will see Scotland’s taxpayers save up to £10 million a year and help Scottish public bodies go greener.

Presently the Scottish public sector spends about £200 million a year on electricity but from autumn, all public bodies in Scotland including councils, health boards, universities, and college can take advantage of the contracts.

Mr Wilson said the initiative was also good news in a recession as the Scottish Government could use the money to protect and create jobs in Scotland. Mr Wilson also said it highlighted how the SNP Government was ahead of the game on bulk buying electricity - a move suggested by the UK Chancellor but which was already being planned by the SNP Government.

Commenting Mr Wilson said:

“Together Scotland has got what it takes to get through this recession and by protecting and creating new jobs. This initiative goes some way to helping deliver that outcome.

“By saving £10 million with the bulk buying of electricity that money can be spent in those areas of Government expenditure that can help protect and create jobs in Scotland.

"There is a very significant opportunity for large organisations such as local councils, Health Boards and other public organisations serving local areas throughout Scotland.

"The SNP Government is also way ahead of the Westminster Government on saving public money by bulk buying electricity. Last week the Chancellor suggested governments can do things like bulk purchase electricity to deal with budget problems, as if it was a brand new idea.

"The fact is that the Scottish Government have been developing this innovative idea since last August, and have now delivered. And now these savings are available for investment in public services and jobs. Hopefully the UK Labour Government will now follow Scotland’s lead."