The UK government believes its commitment to EU renewable energy targets is paying off. Latest Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) figures showing that over the last financial year, companies have announced plans for almost £2.5 billion worth of investment in renewable energy projects in the UK.
The announcement from Energy Secretary Chris Huhne coincides with a separate progress report to the European Commission on the growth of the UK renewables sector, which shows a 27 percent increase in renewable energy consumption, up from 42.6 terrawatt hours (TWh) in 2008 to 54TWh in 2010 – representing 3.3% of total energy consumed.
Mr Huhne reaffirmed his government’s pro-renewables stance, with DECC research showing the industry has 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."
The EU progress report shows the UK installed 5GW of offshore and onshore wind power in 2010 – an increase in wind generation by 46 percent from 2008.
2010 also saw a threefold increase in the use of biofuels in transport from one percent of total road transport fuel supply in 2007/2008 to 3.33% in 2010.
The UK has made a commitment to source 15 percent of its energy from renewable sources by 2020 – five percent less than the EU target of 20 percent by 2020.
The interim report released by the DECC states the UK is on track to meet its 2011/2012 target deadline; with 25 gigawatts of potential projects in the pipeline, but further measures to remove barriers to deployment of renewable need to be put in place.
Mr Huhne says the UK’s smaller climate target in no way diminishes his nation’s dedication to decarbonising the economy.
"Our renewable target is less demanding than other EU member states, but the effect is bringing real jobs and investment."
