Five facts on renewable energy1 May 2005
Get clued up on renewable energy. Check out our five facts.
Renewable energy is clean - it won't cause climate change.
It's safe - unlike nuclear power. And unlike oil, coal and gas, it won't run out. What's more, there's loads of it that we're not using yet.
Fact 1: We're surrounded by natural energy
We could use it to power our vehicles, homes and business. Examples include:
- Solar
Converting the Sun's energy into electricity and heat. - Wind
Electricity from wind energy. - Hydroelectric
Harnessing energy from flowing water. - Biomass
Natural materials, like wood, are burnt or turned into gas to provide energy.
Fact 2: We could meet our energy needs
- A major study shows we can produce 100% of the energy we need from renewable sources.
- We can keep the lights on and cut our reliance on oil and nuclear.
- Marine energy could provide all the electricity we need 3 times over.
- The sun doesn't always shine but new technology will store energy for a rainy day. There's a solution to intermittent supply.
Fact 3: We can boost our economy
- Offshore renewables - like wind, wave and tidal power - could create 145,000 jobs and £28bn in tax revenue.
- With the same investment - renewables could produce the same amount of energy as nuclear.
- Clean British energy would reduce the impace of fuel price hikes linked to problems abroad.
Fact 4: The technology exists - and it's waiting
- It's ready to make a significant contribution to our energy mix.
- Renewable energy is one of the fastest-growing markets in the UK.
Fact 5: The public has spoken - we want renewable, not nuclear
- An independent survey shows that the Government plans is out of touch with public opinion.
Did you know?
The UK has, in the form of wind power, the largest renewable energy resource in Europe
Did you know?
The UK has, in the form of wind power, the largest renewable energy resource in Europe
Energy saving
Clean energy isn't the only answer to climate change. Using and wasting less can make a big impact - as well as saving us cash. Check out our 50 energy-saving ideas.
It's time Government and business took action to switch us from nuclear power and polluting fossil fuels. You can help too.
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