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MPs urge Government action on energy security
25 October 2011
Commenting on a new report, published today [Tuesday, 25 October, 2011] by a committee of MPs, which urges the Government to think strategically about energy security, Friends of the Earth energy campaigner Paul Steedman said:
"MPs are right to warn that keeping us hooked on power stations burning imported gas leaves us open to price spikes - and missed climate change targets.
"The Big Six energy firms have kept us dependent on gas and coal for far too long - the Government must stand up to the power giants by backing the Committee's call for tougher emissions limits and investing in a clean energy system.
"Unless we invest in clean home-grown power and slash the energy we waste, households and businesses across the country will continue to pay the price through rocketing fuel bills."
Commenting on reports that the Government may shortly announce plans to cut incentives to homes, businesses and communities, through the feed-in tariff, for generating their own green energy, Paul Steedman said:
"Ministers should be doing more to encourage cash-strapped families to free themselves from the shackles of the Big Six energy firms by generating their own power - slashing renewable energy incentives would make a mockery of this."
ENDS
Notes to editors:
Energy and Climate Change Committee report: The UK's Energy Supply: Security or Independence?
Earlier this month Friends of the Earth launched its new campaign, Final Demand, calling for a public inquiry into the Big Six energy companies and a fair energy system. The giant energy companies are making huge profits by keeping us hooked on expensive fossil fuels. The campaign is asking people to sign its petition to David Cameron at www.foe.co.uk/finaldemand
Friends of the Earth believes the environment is for everyone. We want a healthy planet and a good quality of life for all those who live on it. We inspire people to act together for a thriving environment. More than 90 per cent of our income comes from individuals so we rely on donations to continue our vital work. For further information visit: www.foe.co.uk
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Published by Friends of the Earth Trust
Last modified: Oct 2011
