That position is also advanced by the SNP.
They have yet to clarify if the “presumption against” new oil and gas developments articulated when Nicola Sturgeon was first minister will be retained in the next version of the Scottish government’s energy strategy.
The prime minister Sir Keir Starmer has defended the continuation of the energy profits levy and highlighted the relaxation of rules on drawing more oil and gas from areas close to existing fields as a concession to the industry.
To be clear, North Sea taxation and licensing is a UK government responsibility.
The Scottish government that is formed after next May’s election cannot change the policy but that does not prevent parties arguing their positions in the Holyrood campaign.
Another energy divide exists over the potential for a new generation of nuclear power in Scotland.
Labour and the Conservatives are in favour, the Liberal Democrats are equivocal and the SNP and Greens are against.
While new nuclear plants require UK government approval, any proposed developments in Scotland could be blocked by the Scottish government using its planning powers.
Pro-nuclear parties argue that new plants would create jobs and provide electricity when the wind’s not blowing.
Anti-nuclear parties criticise the cost of nuclear developments and their legacy of radioactive waste.
Where there is broad agreement is that there are valuable new industrial opportunities to be secured in the renewable energy sector but these are not without controversy.
The location of wind farms and the infrastructure needed to get the electricity they produce to market is a source of considerable tension.
Then there’s the offer of Chinese investment in a major wind turbine production facility at Ardersier, near Inverness, which is receiving extra careful consideration on security grounds.
To repeat, many of these matters are subject to UK decision making or an interplay between Westminster and Holyrood powers. But there are no limits to what can be discussed in any election campaign.
Expect the Holyrood 2026 contest to be animated by debate over Scotland’s energy future as well as those issues over which the Scottish Parliament has full control.
