2.0 UK and Local Energy Strategies
2.1 UK Government Policy
The government has a number of aims which will determine the energy
production and consumption strategies for the foreseeable future:
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Climate change targets - By 2008/2012 reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 12.5% compared with 1990 levels (Kyoto target)
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Cut CO2 emissions by 20% by 2010 (domestic target)
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UK’s climate change programme aims to cut UK emissions by 23% by 2010
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Non fossil fuel obligation targets for the UK of 10% by 2010
The governments energy white paper has just been released at the end of February,03 , it sets out the UK’s future energy strategy. It has confirmed that nuclear power had been superseded by renewables as the governments preferred way of providing power in the future, abandoning any plans for six new nuclear power stations. The white paper introduces plans for examining improvements in ‘green’ technology, with a major increase in funding for renewables. There is also be a large emphasis on reducing carbon dioxide emissions through energy efficiency. The involvement of regional and local markets is also seen as a key to diversifying the energy sources. The four goals for the energy policy are:
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To put ourselves on a path to cut the UK’s CO2 emissions by some 60% by about 2050
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To maintain reliability of energy supplies
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To promote competitive markets in the UK and beyond, helping to raise the rate of sustainable economic growth and improve our productivity
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To ensure that every home is adequately and affordably heated
The report re-emphasises that to reach the goals energy efficiency is likely to be the cheapest, safest way of meeting all four. Renewable energy will also play an important part in reducing carbon emissions, while strengthening energy security and improving our industrial competitiveness as we develop cleaner technologies, products and processes.
2.2 Northwest Energy Strategy
Northwest Energy Strategy which is currently being produced will provide
real opportunities to
influence the national debate:
Key objectives
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Facilitate early implementation ideas
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Give the Northwest a competitive edge
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Ensure supply security maintained
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Attract investment and create Jobs
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Ensure CO2 emission reduction by 2010 conforms with 20% target
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Create an energy efficient region
Security of supply
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Agree areas for support
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Identify projects and help facilitate implementation
Avoid duplication of effort -
Create partnerships on specific issues
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Share resources in specialist areas
Initial areas for support
Grant applications
Guidance on the impact of legislation and regulation
General energy advice/updates seminars etc
Energy audits
Interface with government on energy strategy
The North West Energy Strategy should seek to provide a flexible infrastructure for the future. Since no single delivery system or company can cover all the renewable fuels or give the required security of supply it is essential to identify where support is required.
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Flow diagram of Northwest groups and organisations’ at Appendix
1