19/11/2009
Keep options open on low carbon power technologies
‘To go on enjoying the benefits of electricity and reduce carbon emissions, we shall need a wide range of technologies. Extensive work by the pan European body, EURELECTRIC, has shown that Europe can have a carbon neutral electricity industry by 2050[1]’ said David Porter, Chief Executive of the Association of Electricity Producers.
‘But, it also shows that we cannot afford to neglect any promising technology. That includes electricity from biomass, other renewable energies, nuclear power and coal-fired generation with carbon capture and storage.’
During 2009, over 500MW of large scale biomass capacity has been granted planning permission in the UK. This capacity will play a role in replacing power stations due to retire in the next decade. It is also critical in helping to meet the UK’s target for renewable energy, which means that 30% of electricity in the UK will have to come from renewable sources by 2020.
David Porter went on to say:
‘Companies are facing massive investments in new power stations, to replace ageing plant and meet the green agenda. They want plant which is reliable and technology which is sustainable. Several want to invest in large scale biomass, which has been shown to deliver significant greenhouse gas savings. Many electricity producers are committed to 100% sourcing of sustainably certified biomass and will be working with UK government and stakeholders to meet sustainability requirements.’
Notes to editors
1. EURELECTRIC’S Power Choices Study. Read more.
2. Biomass is a renewable fuel, the use of which is supported under the Renewables Obligation. It can be burnt in both dedicated biomass-fired plant and alongside fossil fuels in conventional plant (‘co-firing’).
3. Where biomass is produced and processed with due regard to sustainability & carbon savings, it is considered as near carbon-neutral. UK Biomass Strategy 2007. Read more.
4. As of this year, electricity producers are reporting on the sustainability of the biomass they use under the Renewables Obligation.
Contact:
Rachel Hunter
Communications Executive
Tel: 020 7930 9390
Direct: 020 7747 2922