Bute House protested by environmental campaigners
Environmental groups held a Halloween-themed protest outside Bute House in Edinburgh against the Scottish government’s approval of a new gas-fired power station at Peterhead. They said the decision risks worsening climate change and household energy pressures, while the government said it remains committed to tackling climate change and reaching net zero by 2045.
Protesters wore masks and displayed placards, including messages calling fossil fuels “scary”. Friends of the Earth Scotland described the approval as a failure to protect people and urged politicians to prioritise warmer homes, better bus services and green jobs. The demonstration followed the UK government’s decision to allow the Jackdaw gas field near Aberdeen to proceed; Scotland’s government said community, nature and cultural heritage impacts were considered.
In short
- Campaigners protested Peterhead’s approved gas-fired power station.
- They linked fossil fuels to climate harm and energy costs.
- Scotland says it remains committed to net zero by 2045.
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The case for
Campaigners can argue that approving another gas-fired power station risks locking in fossil-fuel use and undermining climate targets, while prolonging exposure to volatile gas prices. They say public investment and policy should instead speed up home insulation, public transport and green jobs, which could cut emissions and ease household energy pressures over time.
The case against
Supporters of the approval can argue that reliable power is needed while renewable capacity and storage are still developing, and that gas generation can help meet demand when wind and other sources fall short. They may also say the decision followed consideration of local impacts and can be compatible with a 2045 net-zero goal if emissions are reduced and the plant’s role is limited during the transition.
Explained simply
Bute House is the official residence of Scotland’s first minister in Edinburgh, and a shorthand name for the Scottish Government. The government is responsible for many decisions affecting Scotland, including energy planning and its climate targets.
Peterhead is a town in Aberdeenshire, on Scotland’s north-east coast. A gas-fired power station there would generate electricity by burning gas, a fossil fuel that releases greenhouse gases; Scotland aims to reach net zero emissions by 2045.
Friends of the Earth Scotland is an environmental organisation that campaigns on climate change and other environmental issues. The dispute sits alongside wider UK debates about how to balance energy supply, environmental impacts and the shift away from fossil fuels.
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