It is hoped wind power can make Scotland an industry leader

Deputy First Minister Nicol Stephen said the Scottish Executive funding was for the next two years.

It will be spent on extra support for offshore wind energy, with �8m going to marine power.

However, the Green Party said the investment was a "drop in the ocean" and called for more funding.

'Renewable giant'

The minister said of the powerhouse aim: "To achieve this we need to harness the great diversity of resources we have - the wind, the waves and the forests that make Scotland's renewable potential the envy of the world."

Mr Stephen said �100m invested in renewables and energy efficiency over the last three years had made an impact, but the time was right to step up the pace.

Though this package is certainly better than nothing, there is still too little money and support Mark Ruskell Green MSP

He said developing markets for wave and tidal power could be worth "billions" over the coming years.

The minister added: "Be in no doubt about my desire to see this country become a renewable giant."

Green MSP Mark Ruskell, the party's speaker on the environment, said: "Greens had hoped that Nicol Stephen would seize this opportunity to prove he really does want Scotland to become the renewable energy powerhouse of Europe.

"But this has been another disappointment.

"Though this package is certainly better than nothing, there is still too little money and support.