Member Article

Clegg states importance of low carbon in UK

Nick Clegg has stressed the importance establishing energy diversity in the UK, as he spoke at Siemens in Newcastle today.

During a question and answer session with Siemens’ staff, apprentices and local business operators, the Deputy Prime Minister reaffirmed the view that low carbon energy was an important part of the UK’s energy mix.

He said: “We were dependent on fossil fuel imports from often quite unstable parts of the world. As a country, we’ve got to spread our bets. As a government we’re trying to move to a much more diverse mix of energy generation, and of course as much as possible should be low carbon.

“Without putting taxpayers money at risk, we’re saying we will give the go-ahead to new civil nuclear capacity; boost renewables and create a big push on energy efficiency.

“If we do all of these things, in an even way, we will be in a better position. Currently, we’re in the process of passing legislation that puts all energy sources on an even playing field. This means a low carbon source can compete on the same level as more traditional fossil fuels.”

Siemens’ facility at CA Parsons Works specialises in servicing and repairs of gas and steam turbines and generators.

On recent changes to planning guidance from the Department for Communities and Local Government, which gives communities a greater say on wind farms in their communities, Mr Clegg said he hoped it would not put a block on renewables.

He added: “I hope that it gives local communities a sense that they’ve got a say in things, but doesn’t put a block on progress. Onshore wind, as we know is controversial, but it’s important that people aren’t ignored.

“I think people now have a stake, almost a commercial incentive in having onshore facilities because they will be able to generate some revenue themselves.”

Mr Clegg also touched upon an upcoming policy document on offshore wind, designed to lend confidence to investors in the industry.

He added: “For companies to pop up and create the supply chain and for the investors, they all need to know that the Government isn’t going to pull the carpet out from under them, and that there is a long term industrial plan to back this technology.

“As the technology requires time to develop and so on, we need certainties from politicians. I hope this plan that everybody can buy into, and the politicians can stop bickering about it and get on with it.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .