In January 2006 the total installed electrical generating capacity from all forms of renewable energy was less than 2 GW, about a fifth of the total electrical production.
A variety of other options exist, most of which may affect development of renewable technologies even if they are not means of producing energy from renewable sources themselves.
It is not a form of renewable energy production, although like carbon sequestration it offers a significant commercial challenge to renewable developments.
The total offshore potential is estimated at 25 GW, which although more expensive to install, could be enough to provide almost half the total energy used in Scotland.
With 20 GW of renewable energy projects in the pipeline, the sector has the potential to grow quickly in the years ahead creating more jobs in the region.
Community Energy Scotland provides advice, grant funding and finance for renewable energy projects developed by community groups.
The "Hydrogen Office" in Methil aims to demonstrate the benefits of improved energy efficiency and renewable and hydrogen energy systems.
A related issue is the planned high-voltage Beauly–Denny power line which will bring electricity from renewable projects in the north and west to the cities of the south.
A 2007 report concluded that wood fuel exceeded hydroelectric and wind as the largest potential source of renewable energy.
The renewable energy industry supports more than 11,000 jobs in Scotland, according to a major 2011 study by Scottish Renewables.
In 2010 the Scotcampus student Freshers' Festivals held in Edinburgh and Glasgow will both be powered entirely by renewable energy in a bid to raise awareness with young people in Scotland.
In February 2007 the commissioning of the Braes of Doune wind farm took the UK renewables installed capacity up to 2 GW.
