Scotland’s renewable energy sector employs more than 11,000 people, according to Scottish Renewables.

The energy trade body claims to have assessed more than 200 companies across the wind, wave, tidal and solar sectors and found there are 1,526 people employed in renewable energy development. Another 8,701 work in the direct supply chain and 909 are involved in academia and the wider public sector.

Niall Stuart, CEO of Scottish Renewables said these figures are just the “tip of the iceberg” and there are thousands more employees “supported indirectly” which have not been included in this study. He also suggested renewables are a major part of the country’s growing economy.

Mr Stuart said: “Renewable energy development is bringing much needed investment to the wider economy, which is providing opportunities for businesses and people from a wide range of sectors.”