Renewable energy demand

The growing global demand for power and the potential for a shortfall in the future are well-documented.  The UK and other developed countries are committed to finding more of this power from renewable, non-fossil fuel resources: the UK Energy White Paper 2007 sets out a strategy to reduce carbon emissions by 26% relative to 1990 by 2020; and the UK goal is to reduce carbon emissions by 60% by 2050.  These targets are driven in turn by demanding commitments by the European Union to reduce carbon levels in the atmosphere.

In addition, with the UK fossil fuel supply declining, there is increased interest in the need to secure the supply of power and manage import dependence, given the current and likely future geopolitical framework.  The UK is as a result looking to encourage investment in electricity power stations using renewable sources of energy, as well as gas import and storage infrastructure.