The UK perspective

The UK, in line with other EU countries, has committed to contribute to meeting the EU target of at least 20% of energy from renewable sources by 2020. This, along with its own targets of 10% electricity from renewable sources by 2010, has led the UK to develop a diverse range of sustainable energy resources. Market growth is also driven by the Renewables Obligation, a legal requirement for electricity suppliers to meet an increasing proportion of their power sales from renewable sources.

The UK is a world leader in the development of new and renewable energy and energy efficient systems. UK companies have exceptional project development and management skills which are readily transferable to the rapidly expanding renewable markets worldwide. Innovation will be the key for continued expansion, leading to new solutions and lower costs for technologies such as offshore wind, marine resources and building-integrated renewables.

Some 35 GW of new renewable energy capacity, involving an investment of some £100 billion, is needed by 2020. For more information on the RES consultation please visit: www.renewables-advisory-board.org.uk. This represents a challenge and an opportunity for renewable energy businesses in the UK and internationally. 

Much of this new capacity will be in onshore and offshore wind energy, as these technologies are the most developed for the available resources, and at a scale that can deliver the deployment targets. The UK is conducting a Strategic Environmental Assessment of UK waters to determine the potential for an additional 25GW of offshore wind to be developed (SEA Link).  The recent announcement of The Crown Estate for Round 3 of offshore wind development, in addition to the Round 1 and Round 2 projects.demonstrates the commitment of the UK to this exciting sector.

The use of biomass/fuels and waste is increasing, and research into solar energy conversion is resulting in new capabilities that will have worldwide applications as costs are driven down. Marine wave and tidal work is being led by the UK, with excellent marine R&D facilities.