Scotland’s First Minister has said the latest energy crisis is sharpening the political focus on who controls the country’s energy resources, as concerns grow over rising household bills.
John Swinney warned that Scotland’s position as an energy rich nation is increasingly at odds with the cost pressures facing households and businesses.
His comments come as new forecasts suggest domestic energy bills could rise by £332 from July, adding further strain to already high living costs.
The First Minister has called on Prime Minister Keir Starmer to convene an emergency energy summit, arguing that immediate action is needed to prevent further increases.
Speaking on the issue, Mr Swinney said:
“The latest energy crisis clearly requires immediate domestic solutions for people and businesses already paying some of the highest energy bills in Europe.
“Keir Starmer promised to cut energy bills by £300, but instead Scottish households and businesses face the real fear bills will be hiked by well over £300 come July.
“The latest global energy crisis again raises huge issues in relation to our energy security.
“It will sharpen the focus of Scottish voters on the control of Scotland’s vast energy resources.”
The First Minister argued that Scotland’s energy wealth could play a greater role in reducing costs and protecting against global shocks.
“For an energy rich nation like Scotland to be paying soaring bills just does not add up.”
He also criticised the UK Government’s approach to energy policy, claiming that current arrangements are failing to deliver benefits to Scottish households.
“Through a fresh start with independence, we can use Scotland’s abundant energy wealth to bring down bills, and ensure we are shielded from future energy shocks.”
The call for an emergency summit has also been supported by Northern Ireland’s First Minister, reflecting wider concern across the UK about rising energy costs.
The issue is expected to remain central to political debate in the months ahead, as parties set out competing approaches to energy policy, cost of living pressures and economic security.
Rising bills and global uncertainty are bringing renewed attention to how Scotland’s energy resources are managed, with the debate likely to intensify ahead of the Scottish Parliament election.
