boilingspot: Q&A: renewable energy

17 July 2009

Because energy companies are going to have to invest £100 billion in renewable sources, including 10,000 wind turbines, to meet the Government's target for a 34 per cent cut in the 1990 level of carbon emissions by 2020.

Once the infrastructure is in place will the costs come down then?

No, because the companies will assume a long pay-back period. In the much longer term — 20 to 30 years — costs may come down because a wind farm does not pay for its fuel, unlike a coal or gas-fired power station.

Will there be any government help to make my home more energy efficient?

Yes, a total of £3.2 billion between 2008 and 2011, of which £600 million is additional money announced today. Most of this will be spent on helping the poorest homes pay for insulation.

Is any help planned to cushion the blow for the vulnerable and elderly?

The Govenrment says it will pass legislation forcing energy companies to offer cheaper rates to poorer homes, especially those with older occupants.

Will all this mean the Government is likely to hit its target to cut emissions by 34 per cent by 2020?

It will help, but the Government is still relying heavily on private companies investing in renewable energy, new nuclear power stations and carbon capture systems for coal-fired power stations. It remains to be seen whether those companies believe the incentives are high enough — and will last long enough — to justify the investment.

Will there really be 400,000 new 'green' jobs in six years as a result of this?

It depends what you mean by a green job. Yes, lots of people will be employed collecting and recycling our waste, installing new boilers and building new homes. But are they working on a green project or simply doing traditional jobs in a slightly greener way?