Wind Industry Welcomes Energy Directive

The British Wind Energy Association (BWEA), which represents the UK’s wind, wave and tidal industries has welcomed the EU Commission’s announcement that Britain should supply 15 per cent of its energy from renewable sources by 2020.

Maria McCaffery, BWEA Chief Executive commented,“This is a revolution for the UK’s energy supply. Over half this target will have to be delivered by renewable electricity, and the vast majority of that will be wind power. It is achievable but now industry and Government have to work together to make it happen.”

At 2 per cent, Britain has the third lowest supply of renewable energy in Europe but some of the continent’s richest resources. The bulk of Britain’s contribution will have to come from electricity due to a low starting base for renewables in heat and fuel. That will mean that between 30-40 per cent of the UK’s electricity will have to come from renewable energy by 2020.

Overall, BWEA estimates that in order to reach the 15 per cent target, 8 per cent of the UK’s power supply will have to be provided by electricity (including wind, wave, tidal, biomass and hydro), while heating will provide 3-4 per cent and fuel just 3 per cent.

www.bwea.com