The Answer Could Be Blowing in the Wind

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Published: 14 December 2005

The Answer Could Be Blowing in the Wind

Mini wind turbines, solar panels and other small scale technologies could provide a substantial portion of the UK's energy needs by 2050, according to a new report from the Energy Saving Trust.

It also finds that microgeneration technologies could deliver significant household carbon reductions in future with the right circumstances in place.

The report - Potential for Microgeneration, study and analysis - was commissioned by the DTI to inform the Low Carbon Building programme and the wider microgeneration strategy that is to be published in spring 2006.

It has looked at the current status of the industry and perceived barriers to the wider uptake of the different types of technology and has also suggested when each of these technologies could become more cost effective.

The main findings include that , by 2050, microgeneration could potentially provide 30-40% of the UK's total electricity needs and could help to reduce CO2 emissions by 15% per year.

The Chief Executive Philip Sellwood of the Energy Saving Trust, said:

"Our findings paint a promising picture for the future energy needs of the UK.

Over the next 10 to 40 years a large proportion of homes in the UK could be generating their own energy, saving tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions and helping to prevent climate change."

Commenting on the report energy minister Malcolm Wicks said:

"This report makes an important contribution to the debate on microgeneration.

I would like more micro wind turbines, solar panels and other technologies on schools, homes and businesses as they can make a real difference in reducing the UK's carbon emissions, as well as helping people to understand better where our energy comes from and increase their energy efficiency".

Further information

Potential for Microgeneration Study and Analysis:

Summary

Full Report (VVLF 3.7Mb)

Clear Skies website

Scottish Community and Household Renewables Initiative

Energy Saving Trust

DTI consultation

Responses to consultation

DTI Renewable energy website

Element Energy Limited

E-Connect