Farm renewables strategy unveiled at Black Isle Show

Mr Lochhead said farmers and crofters could capitalise on renewables

Farmers and landowners have been encouraged by the Scottish government to capitalise on Scotland's "renewables revolution".

Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead said a new Agri-Renewables Strategy would help them to "unlock the green energy potential of their land".

He said it covered the planning system, pre-construction costs and how to connect to the National Grid.

The strategy was launched at the Black Isle Show at Muir of Ord.

The document will be part of the Scottish government's 2020 Routemap for Renewable Energy in Scotland.

Mr Lochhead said: "Scotland is currently experiencing a renewables revolution and I want to see farmers, crofters and land managers working with local communities to ensure they grasp the benefits for their businesses and the nation."

He added: "However, we are all on a steep learning curve, and need to quickly learn to take advantage of the industry's increasing enthusiasm.

"We need to get our heads around the various challenges as well as the opportunities."