Energy Secretary reaffirms UK’s commitment to renewable energy targets

Chris Huhne, the UK’s Energy Secretary, has reiterated the economic benefits of renewable energy as he reaffirmed the coalition’s commitment to meeting EU renewable energy targets.

This came as the UK published an update on progress to source 15 percent of all energy from renewable sources by 2020. Latest research from DECC shows that so far this financial year, companies have announced plans for almost £2.5billion worth of investment in renewable energy projects in the UK, with the potential to create almost 12,000 jobs across the country.

“Renewable energy is not just helping us increase our energy security and reduce our emissions. It is supporting jobs and growth across the country, and giving traditional industrial heartlands the opportunity to thrive again,” said Huhne. “Our renewable target is less demanding than other EU member states, but the effect is bringing real jobs and investment. I do not want the UK to be left behind by turning our back on the green economy. The agreement to negotiate a global deal secured at Durban has reinforced major nation’s commitment to cutting carbon. We cannot afford to stand alone while the world wises up.”

A separate report, issued to the European Commission on renewable energy progress in the UK, showed that the nation had achieved a 27 percent increase in renewable energy consumption from 42.6TWh in 2008 to 54TWh in 2010. A figure representing 3.3 percent of the nation’s total consumed energy. The UK has also increased its wind generated power by 46 percent from 7TWh in 2008 to 10.2TWh in 2010, and in 2010 achieved 5GW of offshore and onshore wind capacity. Biofuels in transport saw a threefold increase from 1 percent of total road transport fuel supply in 2007/8 to 3.33 percent in 2010.

 

Images: Climate Action Stock Photos