Energy UK, a trade body which represents more than 80 suppliers and generators of energy in the UK has backed the phasing out of coal-fired power stations. This is an important U-turn for the group which has been regarded as a supporter of fossil fuels historically.
Lawrence Slade, CEO of Energy UK, has stated that the organisation intends to start campaigning for low carbon alternatives. In a recent Pathways to 2030 policy document, he added he plans to remove all coal by 2025; this will ''leave room for lower carbon fuels like new gas, biomass and wind to play a greater role in a flexible energy system.''
The CEO added that the energy industry appreciates that it will be the main driver behind this and a significant level of investment will be required in order to meet decarbonisation targets. He believes the UK should follow the example of Germany and its ‘Energiewende' plan which focuses upon the country's drive towards using a majority of renewable energy sources.
Mr Slade commented: ''The UK’s power sector is poised to make a real contribution to the country’s ongoing energy challenges. Working with government to develop a holistic approach to policy and long term policies that underpin the economic confidence of investors, the UK energy industry can deliver affordable reliable and clean energy now and into the future. But the energy sector cannot meet the country’s green goals alone and we are looking at ways to work with other industry sectors. We are already seeing new reliable and renewable sources of energy coming on stream while working with customers will continue to drive innovation putting power in the hands of users to deliver warmer and more energy efficient homes.''
