How, for example, will new EU Renewables Directive be compatible with the existing EU Habitats and Birds Directives?
Implementing the EU Renewables target will need to be seen as a credible and cost-effective contribution to tackling greenhouse gas emissions if we are truly to act as a global leader. Emissions trading must also be shown to be an effective basis for a global approach. And renewables deployment must be cost-effective: we have no wish to land unnecessary expense falling on consumers, nor threaten EU competitiveness. So, what progress are we making in the UK towards transiting to a low carbon economy? We started from a lower base than some countries, but the progress during the last few years has been rapid. Since the start of the Renewables Obligation in 2002, where Renewables was responsible for 1.8% of electricity generation, the UK has grown to more than double that with 4.43% of electricity from renewable generation eligible under the scheme at the end of last year. This rises to 4.6% for all renewables. The Government is committed to the Renewables Obligation. It has been a success
