The need for a bold response from a nation that considers itself a world leader in tackling climate change has never been clearer, yet on too many fronts, the UK government seems intent upon repeating the mistakes of the past. From runways to new coal fired power stations, the government’s plans for resurrecting the icons that are the principle cause of climate change continue, despite the breadth of opposition marshalled against them.
Within this context, the government's consultation on a new renewable energy strategy for the UK stands as a promising beacon of light. After years of timidity and failure, this consultation shows some small but encouraging signs that the government might just be starting to recognise the scale of potential for renewable energy in the UK.
As a contribution to the government's consultation process, this report systematically catalogues the history of initiatives, obligations and mechanisms introduced by the Labour government over the last decade to encourage renewable energy in the UK, providing a comprehensive critique of Labour's approach. It sets out clear recommendations for how the government can redress the missed opportunities over the last 10 years, and at last turn the UK into the renewable energy powerhouse it is so well placed to become, leading the world in showcasing the real solutions to the challenges of climate change and energy security.
