Why Do We Need Renewable Energy?

The UK Government has set targets of

1. 10% of all electricity to be generated by renewables by 2010
2. 15% by 2015 and
3. 20% by 2020.

The UK has signed legally binding agreements with the European Union to reduce CO2 emissions reinforcing the UK’s commitment to tackle the affects of climate change. The ‘Energy White Paper’ confirms the Government’s intention to maintain support for renewable energy solutions.

Regional Policy Guidance for the South West (RPG10), most specifically Policy RE6, states that a minimum of 11% - 15% of electricity generating capacity in the region should be from renewable energy sources by 2010 (Equivalent to approximately 597MW). Currently the region is expected to miss the 2010 target but could get half way towards it (RegenSW, 2008). With regards to reaching the 2015 and 2020 targets, RegenSW states that rapid changes to national policies and stronger support from decision makers at the local level are required in the next two to three years in order to make a sufficient impact by 2020 (RegenSW, The Road to 2020, 2008). If rapid changes do not occur then less than 5% of the region’s energy will come from renewable energy sources and hence dramatically miss these targets.

The Cornwall Structure Plan 2004 embraces the renewable energy targets by setting a target of between 93-108MW of installed capacity from renewable sources by 2010. Current provision is around 57MW; therefore just under 50% of additional installed capacity is still required if Cornwall is to meet its 2010 target.