Grangemouth cluster must decarbonise by 2045, government plan says

According to a Scottish Government consultation document, the Grangemouth industrial cluster must sustainably decarbonise to achieve net zero emissions by 2045.

Those involved in industry around Grangemouth are being invited to share their views on the Government’s regional transition plan.

Current data suggests the Grangemouth cluster, which includes a number of oil infrastructure facilities, was responsible for 7.2% of Scotland’s total emissions in 2022.

The oil refinery at Grangemouth is due to close next year, sparking fears for hundreds of jobs there.

The UK and Scottish governments are working on another plan for the site’s long-term future called Project Willow.

However the Scottish Conservatives dismissed the consultation as a “talking shop” which would do nothing for workers.

Ministers in Edinburgh say Grangemouth can become a global leader in sustainable manufacturing and production, pointing to opportunities in biofuels and hydrogen.

The document says it has a vision for Grangemouth to be “a thriving industrial cluster which has reduced carbon emissions to net zero” by 2045.

Acting minister for climate action Alasdair Allan said: “Grangemouth has long played a vital role as Scotland’s leading industrial cluster and it is right that the area continues to help lead the way in our journey to net zero by 2045.

“Our first regional Just Transition plan published today sets out our approach to support the growth of a decarbonised economy that puts local communities at its heart. It makes our vision for the future clear and gives specific actions across a number of areas to help achieve a just transition for Grangemouth.

“The plan complements our ongoing activity focused around Grangemouth, including our support package in response to the proposed closure of the refinery and the work we are doing to explore low-carbon transition opportunities for the refinery workforce.

“We are working hard to secure a sustainable, long-term future for the wider industrial cluster and its skilled workforce, and this plan will be vital in helping us to deliver this.”

Conservative net zero spokesman Douglas Lumsden said: “Workers at Grangemouth want to see real action from this SNP Government that protects their jobs and livelihoods.

“The last thing they need is yet another talking shop that does nothing to make sure they are included in our measured transition to net zero.

“If the SNP truly believe in a long-term future for the refinery, they must invest in the current workforce, not just offer them more empty words.”