Renewable energy use has overtaken other power sources such as nuclear in Scotland, according to the latest UK Government statistics.

In the first six months of 2014, renewable sources produced 32% more power than any other source.

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In total, the renewable sector produced 10.3 terawatt-hours (TWh), compared with 7.8TWh from nuclear power generation, which was previously the region’s primary source of electricity.

On the other hand, coal and gas-fired plants in total produced 5.6TWh and 1.4TWh respectively during the first half of 2014.

"Every unit of power generated from renewables means less carbon emitted from the burning of fossil fuels, decreases our reliance on imported energy and supports jobs and investment in communities across Scotland."

Scottish Renewables chief executive Niall Stuart said: "The announcement that renewables have become Scotland’s main source of electricity is historic news for our country, and shows the investment made in the sector is helping to deliver more power than ever before to our homes and businesses.

"This important milestone is good news for anyone who cares about Scotland’s economy, our energy security and our efforts to tackle climate change.

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"Every unit of power generated from renewables means less carbon emitted from the burning of fossil fuels, decreases our reliance on imported energy and supports jobs and investment in communities across Scotland.

According to Stuart, the renewables industry has come a long way in a short space of time and there is still plenty of potential for further growth.

He continued: "Offshore wind and marine energy are still in the early stages of development but could make a big contribution to our future energy needs if they get the right support from government.

That support includes the delivery of grid connections to the islands, home to the UK’s very best wind, wave and tidal sites."

Scottish Energy Minister Fergus Ewing said the figures indicated that the country was making good progress towards reaching its target of producing 100% of electricity from renewable sources.

Energy