The Scottish Government has announced a £6.5 million fund to boost training in oil and gas, renewables and other energy industries – double the original amount unveiled last year.

Led by Skills Development Scotland and located at Robert Gordon University, Energy Skills Scotland (ESS) will work with industry to encourage and support more women, young people and mid-career professionals into the industry. It also aims to improve oil and gas training facilities and develop other energy sector skills courses.

First Minister Alex Salmond said: “This is a huge opportunity for Scotland – by ensuring our workforce has the right skills and training, Energy Skills Scotland will support our energy industry and ensure people can access the jobs that are available. It’s a win-win situation.

“Energy Skills Scotland has a clear remit to work with employers and training providers across the country, to simplify and improve access to learning and skills provision and broaden the energy workforce, including the huge untapped potential among women,” he added.

Scotland’s energy industry needs 95,000 more people between now and 2020, according to figures from the Scottish Government.