Green economy summer newsletter27 September 2013
Summer news from the low carbon network
Welcome to our summer newsletter with the latest updates for businesses in the low carbon and renewables sector. To subscribe please write to [email protected].
A win for wind in the East Midlands - Triton Knoll offshore wind farm gets go ahead
The Department for Energy and Climate Change has given the green light for a wind farm off the Lincolnshire coast, with the potential to power up to 850,000 households each year.
Developers RWE are now applying for permission to build the onshore infrastructure to transfer the renewable energy generated to the national grid.
We'll be watching closely when the applications are submitted to Local authorities in 2014. Read more about Triton knoll on the RWE website.
The Energy Bill - latest update
In spring the Energy Bill passed through the House of Commons - and we came really close to winning a target to decarbonise our energy supply by 2030.
In late October it will move to the House of Lords where the issue of a clean energy target will be raised again.
The Government want to defer putting a target in place until after 2015 - but to make sure we get a binding target to incentivise a low carbon economy we need to get one sooner rather than later.
A letter to the Lords from the low carbon energy sector could have a huge impact on the debate. If you're working in the low carbon sector and would like to help ensure a thriving future for the renewables industry write to [email protected].
4th carbon budget: the looming fight
In 2011 the coalition signed into law the UK's 4th carbon budget - setting emission reduction targets for 2023-2027. But the targets were only adopted after a fight - and a concession that they be reviewed in early 2014.
That review - and a fresh fight - is now looming.
The low carbon industry can help ensure the budget remains intact. We strongly encourage low carbon firms to speak up - publicly and privately - for the economic benefits brought by longer-term targets.
We're helping to pull together a large joint business statement for December. If you're working in the renewables industry and are interested in getting involved please email [email protected]. Read our briefing on the 4th carbon budget for more information.
Fracking gathers pace in the North West
Cuadrilla have announced 9 new shale gas exploration sites in West Lancashire. They've already drilled 4 wells and are seeking permission to hydraulically fracture at Singleton, Fylde.
Meanwhile IGas have plans for coal bed methane and shale gas exploration near Salford, Greater Manchester, and Ellesmere Port in Cheshire.
Friends of the Earth opposes unconventional gas exploration as it poses serious risks to the environment - and keeps us hooked on fossil fuels instead of moving towards renewable energy and energy efficiency.
Read our briefing on the harmful effects of fracking and take action here.
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