New report optimistic about microgeneration...

Tree-huggers and namby-pamby types are getting even more excitable than usual today after a government report suggested that the future of UK power is to be based on environmentally friendly microgeneration systems. Released earlier this afternoon, the Department for Business, Energy and Regulatory Reform (DBERR) report details that solar panels, biomass boilers, fuel cells, and wind power - amongst other salubrious sources of power - will theoretically be able to provide the UK with same amount of electricity as five nuclear power stations by 2020.

The report's outline for the future of the UK's power can only be realised if the government decides to be as ambitious as some other nations regarding its policy towards renewable energy sources. At the moment, Britain is under constant criticism from other countries, such as Germany and Sweden, who have already begun to promote a mass market for small-scale renewables by offering attractive packages to their citizens.

If the UK government does go ahead with the plans discussed in the DBERR report, it is suggested that by 2020 there will be 10m microgeneration systems installed - enough to save 30m tonnes of CO2 every year. Even if no action is taken, it is estimated that 2-3m units will be installed by 2020.

The microgeneration idea basically involves the zero or low-carbon energy by individuals, small businesses and communities to meet their own needs, as opposed to the nations - effectively making a mini power station out of every building. If the plans to have 10m units in operation by 2020 prove to be successful then it would mean that one in five UK buildings would be capable of producing energy for itself and pumping any excess into the national grid. Carbon emissions would be reduced by 14 tonnes every year.

Perhaps the only bad thing about the release of the report is that we're having to debate whether or not we should make a reality of its ideas. If it saves energy and it's doable then why the hell not?

Maybe the future's not so bleak after all...

Written by Oli Anderson on 2 Jun 2008 6:39 PM. Permalink