ONE of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks turned green last week in support of a ‘net zero’ nation.

Melrose Abbey was illuminated as part of SP Energy Network’ major plans to support a low carbon Scotland.

In lighting many of Scotland’s landmarks green, SPEN is urging businesses, local authorities and public bodies to consider what ‘going green’ will mean for them and how their organisations will need to innovate in the future.

Last year, ScottishPower became the first integrated energy company in the UK to shift completely from coal and gas generation to wind power – becoming 100% green.

And now SPEN has revealed key plans to help cities, towns and rural communities across the country achieve ‘net zero’ to support the Scottish Government achieving the world’s most ambitious target, cutting greenhouse gas emissions to zero by 2045.

The switch-on coincided with SPEN hosting an awards event at Edinburgh’s Dynamic Earth to present £10 million funding to innovative projects selected for investment through its Green Economy Fund.

They granted the funding boost to 21 projects including e-bike and e-bus schemes, low carbon energy systems, community hubs and renewable energy training courses across Scotland.

The event was the second of its kind as through the first round of funding a few Borders organisations have already benefited.

One of which was the Ettrick and Yarrow Community Development Company, who are in the process of buying an electric people carrier for the Valleys.

Frank Mitchell, Chief Executive of SP Energy Networks, said: “Becoming net zero offers Scotland a huge economic opportunity.

“The road to 2045 will mean many everyday activities will decarbonise and switch to all-electric technologies and it’s essential for businesses and communities to start planning now for the transition to a cleaner and greener future.”

To find out more about the Green Economy Fund and the projects it supports visit: www.spenergynetworks.co.uk/gef