23/04/2009
New coal-fired power stations and “carbon capture”
Commenting on the government’s announcement about new coal-fired electricity production and carbon capture and storage (23 April 2009), David Porter, Chief Executive of the Association of Electricity Producers said
‘This is encouraging. To avoid power shortages and develop a greener electricity industry, it is important that companies should have access to a range of fuels and technologies, including coal. ‘Carbon Capture and Storage’ (CCS) can play a big part in that and the government’s announcement about CCS demonstration projects is very welcome.
‘We cannot afford delay, however. Old age and air quality regulations will close a third of our electricity production in the next decade. If we do not start replacing power stations soon, UK industry will suffer power cuts in a few years time.
‘The investment to be provided by the electricity industry, for building new plant and meeting the environmental targets, will be massive. The industry and government must be frank about this as the cost will eventually find its way to customers’ bills.’
ENDS
Contact:
Rachel Hunter
Communications Executive
Tel: 020 7930 9390
Direct: 020 7747 2922