THE iconic chimney stack at Longannet was blown down in a controlled explosion this morning.

Around 700kg of explosives were used on Thursday, December 9, to bring down the 600ft chimney stack which dominated the Firth of Forth skyline for more than 50 years.

Until today, it was the country's tallest free-standing structure and the demolition at what was Scotland's last coal-fired power station marks a milestone on the journey to net zero emissions.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, who pushed the button to ignite the explosives, said: “Today’s event is a symbolic reminder that we have ended coal-fired power generation in Scotland, as we work in a fair and just way towards becoming a Net Zero nation by 2045.

“Our goal is to generate 50 per cent of overall energy consumption from renewable sources by 2030, and Scotland’s energy sector is well placed to deliver on the key investments in renewables, hydrogen and energy storage required to achieve this.

“Growth in these sectors over the next decade will be transformative for Scotland, delivering further good, green jobs, strengthened energy security, and benefits for local communities as we decarbonise industry and society to mitigate the worst effects of climate change, in a way that leaves no one behind.”

The iconic power station began generation in 1970 as the largest coal-fired station in Europe at the time.

It remained the largest in Scotland until it was closed by ScottishPower in 2016.

Keith Anderson, chief executive at ScottishPower, said: "At COP26 in Glasgow, we were proud to show the world that Scotland has already made coal history

“As a 100 per cent energy company, we are committed to helping the UK end its reliance on fossil fuels.

“For half a century, Longannet’s chimney has dominated the Firth of Forth skyline.

“We bade farewell to that landmark today – however this is a landmark day for Scotland too.

“Watching the chimney of Scotland’s last coal-fired station fall today represents a real milestone, as the UK moves away from the large polluting power stations of the past and accelerates down the road to net zero emissions.

“We already know the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy is essential to minimise the worst impacts of global warming and address the climate emergency.”