But Will Using Renewables Help?
As well as countering the effects of climate change, using renewable energy will also help to reduce other forms of environmental and social damage arising from the use of fossil fuels. For example, it will minimise the impact of acid rain on water and forest ecosystems, or reduce localised air pollution and its subsequent health impacts.
Another important reason for alternative forms of energy is security of supply. We need to take steps to make sure that the UK continues to have the energy that is vital to its economy. Within a few years, the UK will no longer be self-sufficient in energy and it is expected to become a major importer of gas within a few years.
The energy industry still relies on diminishing sources of fossil fuel such as coal, oil and gas. In 2003, approximately 75 per cent of the UK's electricity was generated from fossil fuel sources, just over 22 per cent from nuclear sources, and less than 3 per cent from renewable sources.
Using 'home-grown' renewable sources of energy will reduce our dependence on imported fossil fuels and will bring diversity and security of supply to the UK's energy infrastructure. It will also help to improve the environment and minimise the impact of climate change.
The UK Government has signed the Kyoto Protocol and has set out its proposals for meeting its target of a 12.5 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions under the agreement.
As part of its goal to reduce emissions, the Government has set a target for the generation of electricity from renewable energy sources. By 2010, 10 per cent of UK electricity should come from renewable sources. There is also an 'aspiration' to double this by 2020.
As well as electricity, efforts are being made to increase the use of renewable energy for heat production and within transport.