DECC 2050 PATHWAYS REPORT: WWF REACTION
27 July 2010
A set of illustrative scenarios for how the UK could meet its binding 2050 greenhouse gas reduction target was released today by the UK Government. WWF-UK welcomes the scenarios focus on decarbonising the power sector but urges the Government to prioritise renewable energy and energy efficiency measures and to act now on putting in place CO2 performance standards on power plants which would help steer the transition to a low carbon future.
Colin Butfield, WWF-UK Head of Campaigns says:
"The power sector needs to be rapidly decarbonised and it is welcome that the Government's pathways recognise this. The UK has vast renewable energy potential that will not only help keep the lights on but will also boost energy security by reducing reliance on costly imported fossil fuels. Combined with a progressive strategy on energy efficiency this is where the Government's priorities must lie, rather than on an energy policy that depends on new unsustainable nuclear power and the waste legacy that it entails."
"The forthcoming Energy Bill provides an excellent opportunity to put some of the policies in place which will help transform the power sector and drive emission reductions in homes. It is important that the Green Deal is ambitions enough in scope to incentivise large numbers of homeowners and we also urge the Government to include CO2 performance standards for power plants. An Emissions Performance Standard (EPS) will help drive innovation in the sector and provide long term certainty for investors."
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For further information or comment please contact Debbie Chapman, Senior Press Officer, WWF-UK, 01483 412397, dchapman@wwf.org.uk
