Two new wind farms which will generate enough power for 118,000 homes have been given the go-ahead.
The minister said support for wind farms was becoming widespread
Deputy Enterprise Minister Allan Wilson has announced turbines will be built at Braes of Doune, near Dunblane, and Farr, near Tomatin in the Highlands.
The construction projects are expected to provide more than 100 jobs, many in the local communities.
Mr Wilson said more people were recognising wind power's economic and environmental opportunities.
He said: "The decision to grant consent to these proposals followed a lengthy consultation process in each case designed to ensure they do not come at an unacceptable cost to the surrounding environment.
The minister added: "As an existing, competitive technology, wind energy will clearly be vital in particular in helping us reach our initial target of 18% of electricity generated in Scotland coming from renewable sources by 2010."
Mr Wilson said that the environmental benefits of renewable generation were now widely accepted.
Farr wind farm will generate up to 112.5 megawatts of electricity from 40 turbines, enough clean energy to meet the average electricity needs of 63,000 homes.
Up to 60 jobs will be created during the construction of the wind farm.
Braes of Doune will generate up to 98 megawatts from 49 turbines, enough clean energy to meet the average electricity needs of 55,000 homes.
At the peak of construction, the site will need 120 workers, 60 of which are likely to be sourced locally.