Net zero-related industries are supporting more than 105,000 jobs in Scotland and contributing £10.2bn to the local economy, according to a new report.

The report, The Scottish Net Zero Economy in 2025, was commissioned by the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) with analysis provided by the independent consultancy CBI Economics and The Data City. It found 3,000 businesses spread right across the country are now part of the Scotland’s net zero economy – with 90% being small or medium-sized.

Economic ‘hotspots’ include Perth and Kinross where more than a tenth of the local economy (12%) is net zero-related, based around proximity to major renewable generation assets, including hydroelectric schemes and large-scale onshore wind developments, supported by established grid infrastructure.

Michelle Ferguson, CBI Scotland Director, said: “It’s hugely encouraging to see the sheer scale of the opportunities afforded to Scotland by the net zero economy. Scotland has been at the heart of the UK’s energy sector for half a century and is now rightly taking its place at the forefront of the clean energy transition.  

“With businesses of all sizes playing a key role, the net zero economy has the potential to bring long-term jobs, investment and growth to communities right across the country. Getting this right is critical to boosting energy security and delivering on our ambitions for growth. 

“Really making the most of this incredible opportunity requires lasting partnership between business and government, at both UK and devolved level. Protecting Scotland’s knowledge base, streamlining planning processes, investing in skills and strengthening high-value supply chains are critical to delivering the energy transition and ensuring the country’s energy legacy remains central to its economic future.”

The analysis found approximately £211bn of planned UK energy infrastructure investment is located in Scotland, representing around a third of the UK’s total pipeline value.  Other net zero economic hotspots include Aberdeen City which supports a tenth (9.4%) of Scotland’s net zero economy by value. The city’s transition is closely linked to the repurposing of North Sea oil and gas capabilities towards offshore wind, hydrogen production and carbon capture and storage, and net zero jobs make up around 13% of the total workforce.

In East Lothian 6.8% of the local economy is supported by the net zero economy. The region is closely linked to renewable energy development along Scotland’s east coast, particularly offshore wind projects in the Firth of Forth and associated transmission infrastructure. 

Click here to read the full report.