§ Mr. MacleanTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (1) what factors underlay the setting of a renewable energy target of 10 per cent; [81783]
(2) what is his estimate of the potential contribution of each renewable energy source to meeting a target of 10 per cent. of total energy supply from renewable sources. [81782]
§ Mr. BattleThe Government published a consultation paper "New and Renewable Energy—Prospects for the 21st Century" on 30 March 1999, which outlines the Government's policy. Key factors underlying that policy include putting the environment at the heart of their decision making. Climate change is recognised as one of the greatest environmental threats facing the world today. Prudent use of natural resources, including renewable energy sources, is one of the Government's objectives. Energy from renewable energy sources is clearly an important element in securing both the diversity and sustainability objectives and has the potential to be supplied on an increasing scale at competitive prices. In line with their Manifesto commitment to "a new and 67W strong drive for new and renewable sources of energy", the Government are working towards a target of renewable energy providing 10 per cent. of UK electricity supplies as soon as possible. They hope to achieve this by 2010. It would require of the order of 3-4 GW (Declared Net Capacity) of new plant in addition to that already contracted to achieve that.
The technologies expected to contribute by 2010 are wastes (municipal, industrial and agricultural), wind (onshore and offshore), hydro, landfill gas and energy crops. The proportions of each will depend upon a number of factors including the extent of technical development and future fuel prices.
Other technologies such as photovoltaics have the potential to make major contributions to world energy needs in the longer term if their development continues and energy companies announce their intention of moving into this market on a significant scale.