Renewables can deliver 60% reduction in CO2 by 2030

RenewablesUK RenewableUK, the country’s leading renewable energy trade association has supported the recommendation from the Committee on Climate Change for a 60% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030. But the Association warned the Government against the introduction of tendering for low carbon capacity and emphasised the need for further investment in renewables.

Binding targets for carbon emission reductions by 2020 already exist, but RenewableUK said today’s call for a 60% cut is the next logical step on the path towards decarbonisation of our electricity supply. The Association also stated that the target is well within current technological capabilities of the renewables sector.

Dr Gordon Edge, RenewableUK’s Director of Policy commented: “We very much welcome the Committee’s carbon reduction announcement but we must warn against tendering of long-term contracts for low carbon capacity. Given our unsuccessful experience of tenders during the 1990s under the Non Fossil Fuel Obligation we would strongly urge the Government not to go down this route.

“The 2020s will be a key decade in our journey towards decarbonisation of our electricity supply and we need clarity on the contributions of the various technologies so we can plan ahead and get the maximum benefit for the UK economy.”

Commenting on the need for further investment in renewable technologies Dr Edge continued: “Renewables have a key role to play in achieving these targets but investment will be needed to bring down the cost of these technologies. For example, significant investment will be needed in offshore technology over the next decade in order for it to deliver what is expected.”

Source: Renewables UK

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