National Energy Strategy and Policy
In 2003 the Government launched the Energy White Paper. The Energy White Paper outlined four goals for the new energy policy to meet:
- To put the UK on a path to cut carbon dioxide emissions by 60% by 2050 as recommended by the Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution.
- To maintain the reliability of energy supplies
- To promote competitive markets in the UK and beyond, helping to raise the rate of sustainable economic growth and to improve the UK’s productivity
- To ensure that each home is adequately and affordably heated
The Government has set a target of achieving 10% of electricity from renewable energy sources by 2010 and an aspirational target of 20% renewable electricity by 2020; it has supported the introduction of the European Emissions Trading Scheme; and developed further incentives for domestic energy efficiency.
On 11 July 2006 the Government announced the results of its 2006 Energy Review. The published report outlines proposals designed to reduce the demand for energy, to secure a mix of clean, low carbon energy sources and to streamline the planning process for energy projects.
Some of the points under consideration will require further consultation but highlights of the report include the possibility of a new nuclear build programme (but funded by the private sector), a recommitment to the 20 % renewables target for 2020 and reshaping of the Renewables Obligation to boost renewables investment as well as more aggressive support for household renewables, a focus on energy efficiency measures, an expansion of the Emission Trading Scheme, and measures to look at carbon capture and storage and increased use of biofuels in transport.
Delivery of the Energy White Paper
The Sustainable Energy Policy Network brings together a network of policy units from across government departments, regulators and key delivery organisations that are jointly responsible for delivering the Energy White Paper.
Other Governmental Departments
dti
The DTI's Energy Group deals with a wide range of energy related matters, from its production or generation to its eventual supply to the customer. The Group is committed to working with others to ensure competitive energy markets while achieving safe, secure and sustainable energy supplies.
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Defra – Sustainable Energy
Energy - gas and electricity - used in the home is responsible for 25% of the UK's carbon dioxide emissions. Carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas produced when electricity is generated or gas is burned, is a major contributor to climate change ("global warming"). Improved energy efficiency is therefore a key element of the UK Climate Change Programme, which sets out the full range of activity envisaged
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Current Energy Consultation
The Government recently launched its Strategy for the promotion of Microgeneration and the Low Carbon Buildings Programme. This strategy is designed to provide an important step towards creating a more strategic approach to the implementation of microgeneration and building integrated energy related technologies.
Strategy for the promotion of Microgeneration and the Low Carbon Buildings Programme
The aim of the strategy is to develop a more strategic and co-ordinated approach across Government in order to identify cost effective measures to help new and existing microgeneration technologies make a significant contribution to energy policy goals.
The Low Carbon Buildings Programme is an important tool for the delivery of the microgeneration strategy. It takes over from the existing Clear Skies Initiative and Major PV Demonstration Programme, both of which provide capital grants for small-scale renewable installations.
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