Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser gave his backing to Longannet power station during a recent visit.
Opened in 1973 Longannet Power Station is the UK’s second and Europe’s third largest coal-fired power station. The station is capable of generating 2400 MW of electricity which has the potential to power up to 2 million homes in Scotland.
During Murdo’s visit coal was powering 38% of the UK’s electricity demand compared with wind power which was only supporting 9% of demand.
Commenting Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“It was great to visit Longannet which is a major employer in the area providing permanent jobs for nearly 450 workers and up to 1000 contractors during repair works.
“Coal has a major role to play in our energy mix and consistently and affordably generates upwards of 40% of the UK’s electricity.
“The Scottish Government must support Longannet and its workforce as it hopes to produce electricity up to and beyond 2020.
“Coal and shale gas represent the only viable sources of delivering cheap energy for hard pressed Scottish consumers and businesses.”