What actions it is taking to support micro-hydro renewable energy schemes.

The Scottish Government has ensured that Scotland can benefit from the UK-wide feed in tariff for renewable energy schemes, including micro-hydro. The Feed in Tariff came into force on 1 April 2010.
Support is also provided to agricultural, forestry and rural micro businesses wishing to install micro-hydro schemes under the Scotland Rural Development Programme and advice and funding is available to Communities under the Community and Renewable Energy Scheme.
In addition, the Scottish Government supports interest-free energy efficiency loans through our Energy Saving Scotland Small Business Loans Scheme.
The Scottish Government also facilitates the Forum for Renewable Energy Development Micro Hydro Sub-Group, which is an industry led group tasked with taking forward actions identified in the Renewables Action Plan for the micro-hydro sector. The group is currently working with SEPA on its draft guidance for run of river hydro schemes, which should help developers in identifying suitable sites for development.