Why is the UK setting targets for increasing use of renewables?
Several factors are driving the shift towards renewable energy sourcing, and the setting of targets for increasing our use of them. Firstly we have climate change and emissions reduction targets. Secondly, supplies of traditional fuels such as oil and gas are becoming more expensive, and the UK’s reserves are in decline. We need to strengthen our energy security. Finally, the advent of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme will make the use of fossil fuels – especially carbon-intensive coal – less attractive in future. This is because a price is being placed on carbon emissions providing financial incentives to minimise these in all industrial processes, including electricity generation.
