Scotland eyes 50% renewable energy by 2030 in shift away from North Sea oil

SNP unveils plan encouraging motorists, homeowners and businesses to use low- or zero-carbon sources for half their energy

The Scottish government has taken the first steps to heavily cutting the country's reliance on North Sea oil and gas after calling for 50% of Scotland's entire energy needs to come from renewables.

In a subtle but significant shift of emphasis for the Scottish National party after decades championing North Sea production, ministers unveiled a new energy strategy intended to push motorists, homeowners and businesses into using low- or zero-carbon green energy sources for half their energy needs by 2030.