Energy giant SSE has been told it must commit to creating new Scottish jobs after cuts at Peterhead Power Station.
It has made the decision to axe 11 posts at the plant and is now seeking volunteers from among the workforce.
Scottish Labour said the announcement was disappointing and evidence of continued uncertainty in the power sector.
But energy spokesman and North East MSP, Lewis Macdonald, said there remained opportunities for growth if firms such as SSE look to renewables.
Mr Macdonald said: “The north-east has been hit hard by job losses in the oil and gas industry in recent years, and unfortunately it seems as though this pattern is set to continue.
“Peterhead remains one of the most efficient gas-fired power stations and should continue to generate electricity as long as gas remains part of the wider energy mix.
“These job losses, however, are a sharp reminder of the insecurity of jobs in this sector.
“That is all the more reason why SSE should commit to creating new jobs on renewable energy projects.
“And it is not enough to create on-shore jobs in operation and maintenance.
“SSE needs to ensure as much of the construction work as possible is done in Scotland, from building turbine blades and towers to the electrical systems infrastructure and marine installation.”