Is the UK set to miss its renewable energy targets? - Part 2

The report said that planning should not be seen as an obstacle, and recommends that planning processes be coordinated at several levels and various means used to achieve more local acceptance of renewable developments. The committee said they did not believe that simply urging developers to engage in "active consultation and discussion" will in itself secure public support for renewables. "It is essential that local communities derive real benefits from the renewable generators on their doorstep. We recommend that the government explore changes to the regulatory framework that would give local communities a direct stake in such developments," the report said.

On the subject of local opposition to wind farms, the committee said: "We are not aware of any reliable evidence to suggest that low frequency or other noise from wind turbines has affected human health. Nevertheless, in light of the obvious concern that may arise over this issue, we recommend that the government commission independent research to examine the issue, with a view to providing full and authoritative information."

The report also criticised the government for not having a minister with responsibility solely for energy. Stephen Timms, minister at the DTI is currently responsible for a range of areas including energy, e-commerce, telecommunications, CSR and postal services.
"At the very least there should be a minister of state wholly committed to clear, energy focused aims who can bring together responsibility for all aspects of energy policy, including security of supply," it says.

In conclusion the report said the government are right to encourage further development of renewable energy, and that the various sources have the potential to enhance the long-term security of UK supplies and help cut carbon dioxide emissions. However, the committee summed up by saying: "We could not avoid the conclusion that the government are not taking energy problems sufficiently seriously."