Europe sets the standard for the globe

Leading UK renewable energy trade associations today hailed as historic the decision of Europe’s leaders to set a binding target for 20% of the EU’s total energy supply to come from renewables by 2020. This target is challenging given that 6.5% of the EU’s energy is currently sourced from renewables, but meeting it is vital if necessary reductions in greenhouse gas emissions are to be made.

Maria McCaffery, chief executive of the British Wind Energy Association, was jubilant: “This bold step by the EU shows world leadership in this sector, vital for tackling climate change. By setting out this ‘2020 vision’, and crucially by backing it up with legal penalties, the Council has set the solid framework required for long-term investment in these industries. Europe will reap the reward in terms of economic development, security of supply and a safer world.”

Jason Ormiston, Chief Executive of Scottish Renewables, said: “To date attempts to reduce carbon emissions have largely focused on the electricity sector and there has been some success with this in Europe but action in the heat and transport sectors has had mixed success, especially in the UK. This all-energy target for renewables will give a major boost to all renewable technologies and the UK and Scotland are well placed to make a major contribution.”

Philip Wolfe, CEO of the Renewable Energy Association, said: “With our immense resources, the UK must now position itself to take the lead in Europe’s renewable energy future. For too long we have neglected our natural advantages for exploiting renewables, not only as a source of secure, sustainable energy, but also as an engine of growth for our economy. But the reality right now is that we’re among the worst performers in Europe. Just 2% of the UK’s energy comes from renewables. We look forward to a step change in our national renewables policy, with measures that truly deliver on all fronts – in the heat market, in the power sector and for biofuels.”

However, the UK must lead by example and redouble its efforts in the short term. Urgent efforts are needed to meet the existing 10% renewable electricity target for 2010, which is currently threatened by the deteriorating performance of the planning system. Investment in biofuels is stalling, in spite of the Renewable Transport Fuels Obligation, and we have no policy in place for renewable heat. The UK renewables industry is ready to meet the challenge of a 20% target but this can only be achieved if a more consistent and efficient policy framework is rapidly introduced.

For further information contact:
- Gordon Edge, Director of Economics and Markets, BWEA: 020 7689 1967, 07816 830 180, gordon@bwea.com

Philip Wolfe, Chief Executive, REA: 07971 786417, pwolfe@r-e-a.net
Gaynor Hartnell, Head of Renewable Power, REA, 020 7747 1832
Graham Meeks, Head of Fuels and Heat, REA, 020 7747 1842

Jason Ormiston, Chief Executive, Scottish Renewables:
0141 222 7923, 07775 727 805, Jason@scottishrenewables.com