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TWO wind turbines are being set up on Blackpool's promenade to help power the resort's famous illuminations.

In May, a third will join the pair, which cost £147,000 each, and together it is hoped they will cut £13,250 from the town's annual energy bill.

They will sit on the front, close to the Sandcastle Water Park, and are expected to have a 25-year lifespan.

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McIntosh Welcomes Prime Minister’s reply following meeting on Bio Fuels

Anne McIntosh MP for the Vale of York today welcomes the response from the Prime Minister following her recent meeting with him requesting a full statement on bio fuels.

Please click here for the full text of the letter.

DAVID HEATH MP – TACKLE CLIMATE CHANGE BY A GREEN TAX SWITCH

As part of the Liberal Democrat campaign for a green tax switch – taxing pollution not people – David Heath, MP for Somerton & Frome is welcoming Dr Vince Cable MP and Graham Watson MEP to Frome, where they will be shown a biofuels car, owned by Somerset Country Council, by Deputy Leader of Somerset County Council, Cllr Paul Buchanan.

David Heath said: "In Frome, according to the latest official figures, we are all emitting 8.8 tonnes of carbon per person per year, 5.5 per cent less than the UK average of 9.3 tonnes per person, but still far higher than the global average of around 2.5 tonnes per person.

"We need to go further to get down to a sustainable level that will stop climate chaos, rising sea levels and storms. The good news is that the technology is already there to do so by shifting to low carbon cars, like the one I will be viewing tomorrow, saving energy in the home, and cutting down oil and gas at work.

"All the main political parties now agree that we have to tackle climate change, but only the Liberal Democrats have put forward firm plans to help us change our behaviour through tax incentives.

"I am pleased to be welcoming Dr Vince Cable, the Liberal Democrat Shadow Chancellor and architect of the Lib Dem green tax plans to Frome and that he will be able to view a biofuel car, pioneered by Liberal Democrat controlled Somerset County Council, providing a practical solution to the threat of climate change here in Somerset."

LAWS BACKS MICROPOWER ENERGY

David Laws, MP for Yeovil constituency, is supporting a proposal to increase the use of microgeneration as a power source. Microgeneration involves the generation of energy from renewable and low carbon sources on a local scale, such as small scale wind turbines and solar panels.

If passed, the bill will enable local authorities to set binding targets for the use of microgeneration in their local development plans.

David Laws MP said:

'The opportunities created by micropower are huge. Expanding the use of microgeneration can be a key method in reducing our country’s carbon emissions and lowering our harmful impact upon the environment.

'Micropower also brings the production of energy closer to the consumer. By generating your own power, it is possible to cut bills and be more energy efficient.

'The Government has finally recognised that action must be taken to end the damage we are doing to our environment. Micropower will enable people in Somerset to do their part to fight climate change.'

Make the world safe for future generations, says local MP

A world that is safe for our children and their children.
That was the plea made by West Dunbartonshire MP John McFall in a debate on climate change in the House of Commons on Monday.
Mr McFall asked for some "realism" to be injected into the debate on the Stern Review.
He said there would be "no pain free choices" for people in their future lifestyle -- or for the Government and their policies.
They would have to grasp the nettle of climate change or the consequences could be disastrous, said the local MP.
He congratulated David Miliband, the Environment Secretary and Chancellor Gordon Brown, on the report which looks at the economic consequences of failing to tackle climate change.
He said that Opposition leader David Cameron had not even been elected to his post when the report was commissioned.
Mr McFall said: "There will be no pain-free choices for individuals and their future lifestyle, or for the Government and their policies. The issue is too important to leave to party politics."
He urged Mr Miliband to "ensure a national debate between politicians and in every community and school so that we may leave a safe planet for our children and their children."
The Minister accepted that Mr McFall was making "an important point."
And he added: "I tried to refer in my statement to the need for the Climate Change Bill to be something that can be taken out to businesses, schools and communities around the country."
He said Mr McFall was "right about the need for action by Government and businesses, and also individual action."
Mr Miliband added: "Some people always find change painful, but when the failure to change would be even more painful, the case for action is proven. That is the case in this area and I will be seeking to prosecute it."

Tom Brake MP commits to 'Save your 20%' campaign

Tom Brake, Liberal Democrat MP for Carshalton and Wallington is urging his constituents to join him in committing to reduce the amount of energy they consume on a daily basis. He has joined the Energy Saving Trust's "Commit to Save Your 20%" campaign which was launched as part of the Trust's 10th annual Energy Saving Week.

He is cutting his emissions and his electricity bill through everyday, 'normal' actions, like using energy saving light-bulbs and boiling only as much water as needed.

Tom has also added his name to a Parliamentary Early Day Motion welcoming Energy Saving Week and calling on fellow MPs to show leadership in their constituencies by supporting the Energy Saving Trust's call to action encouraging individuals to reduce their energy consumption and help tackle climate change.

Tom has previously shown his commitment to green policies; earlier this month he launched a page of green ideas on his website (www.tombrake.co.uk/gogreen), and a fortnight ago Tom and Carshalton and Wallington Councillors joined residents to kick off Sutton Liberal Democrats' Green Action Week with a clean-up of the banks of the River Wandle.

And in response to questions from The Independent newspaper, Tom commented: 'Personally I am committed to reducing my emissions by 20% and will do so by a range of measures including purchasing a more economical car, improving insulation in our home, buying low energy light bulbs, taking the train rather than flying on holiday. This is such an important issue and if we all make small changes to our daily lifestyle, we really can make a difference.'

Philip Sellwood, Chief Executive of the Energy Saving Trust, said, "We are calling on the nation to undertake a series of daily habit changing actions during Energy Saving Week 2006. The aim is to galvanise the nation into breaking their bad energy habits one by one, which will not only help prevent the damaging effects of climate change but also will help reduce individual energy costs. To find out how you can commit to save your 20%, visit www.est.org.uk/commit."

Dr Hywel Francis MP Committed to 'Save Your 20%' Campaign

Aberavon MP, Dr Hywel Francis, urged his constituents recently to join him in committing to reduce the amount of energy they consume on a daily basis. Dr Francis has joined the Energy Saving Trust's 'Commit to Save Your 20%' campaign, which was launched as part of the 10th annual Energy Saving Week.

Domestic Energy use accounts for almost 50% of carbon dioxide emissions but collectively we can make a real difference. If we all saved 20% of the energy we use every day we can help prevent climate change. The recent Energy Saving Week 2006 highlighted that consumers are able to make an enormous difference both to the environment and to their energy bills through everyday 'normal' actions.

Dr Francis has added his name to a Parliamentary motion welcoming Energy Saving Week and calling on fellow MPs to show leadership in their constituencies by supporting the Energy Saving Trust's call to action encourage individuals to reduce thier energy consumption and help tackle climate change.

There is a whole range of energy saving measures that we can all undertake, many of which are simple and 'low cost, no cost'. The following is a list of the 10 commitments Dr Francis and the Energy Saving Trust are encouraging householders to make:

• When making hot drinks only boil as much water as I need.
• Turn down my thermostat by 1º C.
• Switch off appliances and not leave them on standby.
• Insert cavity wall insulation
• Top up my loft insulation to 270mm
• Replace 3 light bulbs with Energy Saving Recommended ones.
• Install a condensing boiler.
• Buy Energy Saving Recommended appliances.
• Wash my laundry at 30º C
• Leave my car at home for short journeys

For larger measures such as insulating your home or installing microgeneration the Energy Saving trust provides impartial advice, grants and information to help you implement your commitment.

Dr Francis said,

"As well as signing the Early Day Motion, I will be urging my family, friends, staff and constituents to be energy conscious. We can help prevent climate change by all committing to save 20% of the energy we use every day."

Phillip Sellwood, Chief Executive of the Energy Saving Trust, said,

"Throughout Energy Saving Week 2006 we called on the nation to undertake a series of daily habit changing action. The aim is to galvanise the nation into breaking their bad energy habits one by one, which will not only prevent the damaging effects of climate change but will also help reduce individual energy cost. To find out how you can commit to save your 20%, visit www.est.org.uk/commit."

CAMPBELL SPEAKS OUT ON ENVIRONMENT IN VISIT TO SUTTON

Sir Menzies Campbell MP, Leader of the Liberal Democrats, yesterday visited BedZED in Hackbridge in the London Borough of Sutton. BedZED is the UK's largest carbon-neutral community.

He arrived at Hackbridge Station by train accompanied by Paul Burstow MP and was met by Tom Brake MP, Sue Riddlestone a Director of Bioregional and Cllr Colin Hall, Deputy Leader of Sutton Council who briefed him on Sutton's 'Smarter Travel Sutton' project.

At the end of his visit, Sir Menzies Campbell said:

"Liberal Democrat Councils are making a real difference on the environment. First Sutton Council made BedZED possible and now - through the 'Smarter Travel Sutton' initiative - it is encouraging businesses, schools and individuals to develop travel plans and reduce their car dependency."

Tom Brake, Liberal Democrat MP for Carshalton and Wallington remarked, "Sutton has a green track record second to none. When others were rubbishing the science of climate change years ago we backed BedZED. We are now trail-blazing again with 'Smarter Travel Sutton'. And just as the lessons learnt at Bed Zed have helped improve low or zero energy building projects around the world, the lessons learnt from 'Smarter Travel Sutton' will be picked up by every urban and suburban community seeking to cut its reliance on the car.

Councillor Colin Hall, Sutton Council's Deputy Leader, commented, "The BedZED development, a world class example of sustainable living, was made possible by the forward thinking and the environmental commitment of Sutton's Lib Dem Council. This project and others like the Killick House solar panel scheme and our excellent recycling record have led to the borough being picked to host 'Smarter Travel Sutton', a £5M sustainable transport project designed to help local residents make informed decisions about alternatives to using their own car.

Paul Burstow, Liberal Democrat MP for Sutton & Cheam finished by saying, "Climate change is a problem that requires both national leadership, local action and personal responsibility. We all have a part to play in reducing our own individual contributions to greenhouse gases. Sutton Council has been in the vanguard of this movement for green action for over two decades. Sutton was green when it was neither trendy nor cool."

Residents who want to cut their CO2 emissions can do so by signing up to Sutton's Planet Pledge at www.sutton.gov.uk/environment/planetpage/ or visiting Tom Brake’s ‘go green’ page at http://www.tombrake.co.uk/pages/GoGreen.html

THE DEBATE IS OVER, GREEN BUSINESS IS GOOD BUSINESS - OPIK

Commenting on The Treasury's Stern report on the economics of climate change released today on the economic cost of climate change, Lembit Opik, Leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats and MP for Montgomeryshire, said:

"The debate is now surely over. Finally it seems the Government have got the message. Leaving climate change unchecked will burn a £3.5 trillion whole in the economy. But tackling climate change can massively reduce this burden and present a wealth of new commercial opportunities. Green business is good business.

"I hope this report sends tremors through every Government department. We have been far too timid in developing strategies to tackle climate change and have missed so many good opportunities to develop our green economic sector.

"Wales is one such country with an abundance of renewable resources and environmental expertise that is just waiting for the green light from the Government. We cannot afford to delay further. We must now act.

"When I meet with Wales Office ministers later this year, I will be pushing them to develop a bold new green economic strategy that will actively encourage investment and the development of Welsh green industries and technology."

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Betty Williams MP writes for Save our Scenery newsletter

August 9th 2006

I welcome this opportunity to comment on the npower renewables' construction consent application for wind turbines at Gwynt y Mor.

The Welsh Assembly Government (WAG) view is that Wales should concentrate on renewable energy and, in particular, wind energy. WAG is also of the opinion that nuclear energy should not feature in Wales' future energy production.

The Welsh Affairs Committee of the Westminster Parliament held an inquiry into Energy in Wales. Its report was published on 20th July 2006. The Wind Energy chapter provides some history and a balanced view of evidence both for and against wind energy for Wales, onshore and offshore.

Significantly the Welsh Affairs Committee reached no firm conclusion about wind energy. The Committee did however express concern about the Renewable Obligation scheme whereby licensed electricity suppliers are required to deliver a specified amount of electricity from eligible renewable sources. Witnesses indicated that the scheme encourages wind energy and not other renewable energy sources (Paras 22 and 26).

I agree entirely with the Committee's view that "Government at all levels will need to improve upon their communications strategy to explain both the benefits and limitations of wind power" (Para 195). The Committee added "wind energy cannot be a complete substitute for nuclear power" (Para 196).

Representations to me from constituents, for and against the proposal, were passed to the Secretary of State and acknowledged by the Minister for Energy, Mr Malcolm Wicks MP. He confirmed he will consider all points made by constituents "and will balance the need to meet the Government's targets for renewable energy generation, and thereby reduce carbon emissions, against any potential local impacts." The Minister is well placed to do this as he led the review of UK energy policy at the request of the Prime Minister.

Potential local impacts have concerned most constituents opposed to the proposal. Flooding, a tsunami, business ruin, noise pollution, scale of the project, visual impact, disturbance to marine habitat and life, lowering of home prices and, in general, a reduced quality of life, are merely some points made.

I met npower representatives and they subsequently provided me with responses which I passed to constituents by letter.

Constituents who support the proposals tended to reject many concerns of objectors and pointed to the advantages of renewable energy including reduced carbon emissions.

By the beginning of this year it was clear to me that if the Government does not reject the application then there should be a full public enquiry. This would enable public opinion, both objectors and supporters, to be fully considered alongside the technical aspects of the proposal.

In January 2006 I made a request for a public enquiry to the Secretary of State. The Minister responded on the 8th February 2006 that "I can confirm that when I consider this application in due course I will have to decide whether to approve consent, refer it to a public enquiry or reject it".

I now await the Minister's decision.

MP COMPLAINS ABOUT RETURN OF THE GREAT STINK

7 August 2006

Erith & Thamesmead's MP, John Austin, who lives in Lower Belvedere, is regretting not taking his holidays in August! He said "After a busy week, I was looking forward to relaxing in my garden at the weekend but was forced to retreat indoors and eventually close the windows on both Saturday and Sunday because of the smell emanating from Thames Water's sewerage works. I have since received complaints from neighbours and have also been informed that during the week, the smell was experienced as far away as Upper Belvedere".

John Austin has made representations to Thames Water about the problem. He added "They promised us a virtually odour-free summer. I know that there will be smells from time to time from a sewerage works but this has been persistent over several days".

John Austin has also referred the matter to Bexley Council, which last year won a court case against Thames Water over the issue of odour release.

Co-op Climate Change Commandos at Brighton Pride

7 August 2006

David Lepper, Labour and Co-operative MP for Brighton Pavilion, joined the Co-operative Group's Climate Change Commandos at this year's Brighton Pride in Preston Park, Brighton, on Saturday 5 August to help spread the message about fighting climate change.

Brighton Pride, the largest free gay pride event in the UK, attracts tens of thousands of people to Brighton in August each year for the spectacular parade and carnival in Preston Park.

David Lepper said:

"Pride is one of the high points of the summer season for the city, not only bringing visitors from all over the world but also providing a great day out for local people.

"This is the second year running the Co-op Group has been present at Pride and I was glad of the chance to help spread the message about the Co-op's campaign on climate change. Co-op MPs have played an important part in backing Mark Lazarowicz MP's Climate Change and Sustainable Energy Bill in Parliament which, among other things, will ensure more support for micro-generation schemes.

"The Co-operative Group can be proud of its record in backing renewable energy through schemes such as the 7,000 photo-voltaic panels on the Co-operative Financial Services CIS building in Manchester.

"July 6 saw the launch of the Coldham Wind Farm in Cambridgeshire - a joint venture between the Co-operative Group and Scottish Power - a £17m eight-turbine wind farm to produce energy for 9000 homes, saving 36,000tonnes of CO2 per year."

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NUCLEAR ENERGY 'DIRTY, DEAR AND DANGEROUS'

Nick Harvey MP has today commented on the long awaited results of the Government's energy review published this week. The Review concluded that nuclear power is economically viable and should play a role in UK energy policy.

Mr Harvey said:

"This move could have disastrous consequences for Great Britain. Not only has the focus on nuclear prevented the government from announcing urgently required investment into clean coal and renewable technologies, but we are also facing increasing threats from terrorist organisations for whom a nuclear power station would be an ideal target.

"Instead of wasting money on expensive nuclear technology we should be creating the right market in carbon, which would encourage private firms to invest, and raise the funds for essential government-sponsored Research and Development.

"Projects such as the Marine Current Turbines at Lynton and Lynmouth, where a tidal energy farm is now planned, is a shining example of how we might hope to meet our energy needs in the future with not just one but a whole basket of technologies."

NUCLEAR: THE UNANSWERED QUESTIONS

Alan Whitehead, MP for Southampton Test today welcomed much of the Energy Review, published yesterday by the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, Alistair Darling, and in particular praised the commitment in the review to energy management and increased support for renewable energy sources.

But he also claimed that the Review has not made the case for nuclear power that had been claimed in some quarters. Indeed, Dr Whitehead cited three questions on nuclear power unanswered in the review:

"Firstly no new nuclear power stations will be online before 2020 according to the Review. This means that any gap in energy supplies will have to be made up before then and not by nuclear.

Secondly nuclear power stations will only be built by private companies if they are confident that they will get their money back. The mechanisms set up in the Review will not achieve that but might instead damage investment in other sources of energy.

Finally, there are strong mechanisms proposed in the Review to encourage energy efficiency and the take up of distributed generation. It is not clear why we need nuclear if these paths are rigorously pursued."

COSTLY NEW NUCLEAR THREATENS ENVIRONMENT

Responding to the DTI Select Committee's report into nuclear power, Liberal Democrat Shadow DTI Secretary, Edward Davey MP said

"Three years ago, there was a growing cross-party consensus around the 2003 energy white paper's recommendations. This outlined a vision for a low carbon non-nuclear future.

"The Government has now surrendered to pressure from the pro-nuclear lobby. The country now faces a costly, ineffective and unpredictable approach to the future of our environment."

CUTTING ENERGY DEMAND WOULD REMOVE NEED FOR BLAIR'S NUCLEAR FOLLY - FOSTER

Bath's MP, Don Foster has spoken out against nuclear power following a new report from the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) which stated that almost four times more energy could be saved through energy efficiency measures over the next two decades than could be generated by replacing all the UK’s nuclear reactors.

Commenting, Don said:

"Nuclear is a tried, tested and failed technology with demonstrably higher costs than the renewable alternatives. This report's recommendations to use less energy is yet another endorsement of the approach advocated by the Liberal Democrats. However, under Labour, energy use has been going up and up, year by year, with no sign of ending.

"The most sensible way to ensure security of supply and avoid astronomical expense is to use energy more efficiently. Apart from onshore wind farms, investment in energy efficiency is the most cost effective energy strategy."

McIntosh: New measures to promote local green energy are welcome

Miss Anne McIntosh, MP for the Vale of York, today welcomed proposals by the Government to make it easier for homes to install small-scale renewable energy, such as solar water heating or mini-wind turbines. The move by the Government to change planning rules comes after a Conservative campaign to push for more green energy and micro-generation.

Miss Anne McIntosh explained, "I welcome that the Government has responded to cross-party pressure to make it easier for homes in North Yorkshire and across the country to install renewable energy like solar panels or mini-wind turbines. Where the Government offers positive, constructive and reasonable policies, they will have my support.

"But the Government could do far more to promote green energy, rather than giving unfair subsidies to new nuclear power stations. Conservatives want to enhance our environment by seeking a long-term cross-party consensus on sustainable development and climate change – instead of short-term thinking or surrendering to vested interests. The modern, compassionate Conservative Party believes that quality of life matters just as much as quantity of money."

Also this week, David Cameron has made a major speech calling for:
• A level playing field between renewable and other forms of energy generation.
• Encouraging local generators to sell any spare electricity they generate back to the National Grid.
• Improving and streamlining planning procedures for green energy.

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In advance of the government's energy review due tomorrow, the Green Party today released the results of a national survey dramatically highlighting public opposition to a new generation of nuclear power stations, and revealing widespread criticism of the way in which the government conducted it's review.

Green Party Principal Speaker Keith Taylor commented: "When asked directly whether they supported plans to build new nuclear power stations, 87% of respondents rejected the nuclear option, in stark contrast to an overwhelming 98% support for greater investment in renewable energy, and 99% support for greater investment in energy-saving measures at home and work. This puts pay to any suggestion the nuclear power is accepted as a necessary evil by the UK.

"Despite the government's ceaseless attempts to frame the debate as one of 'nuclear, or the lights go out,' the British public are not convinced. The preparatory scare-mongering we have witnessed in recent months from the likes of Alistair Darling, Malcom Wicks and Tony Blair has failed to make any headway on convincing the public of the case for a new generation of dirty and dangerous nuclear power stations.

"The survey also revealed tellingly low levels of confidence in the government's consultation process. 89% of those polled agreed with the statement: 'I think the government had already decided what they wanted to do about nuclear power before this debate started.'

These results concur with the fears today raised by the Trade and Industry Committee 'that the outcome of the government's energy review had been decided in advance.'

Keith Taylor continued: "Accusations of 'rubber stamping' are wholly justified. Only today, leaked documents have revealed plans for a massive expansion of nuclear power across G8 countries and the developing world, in advance of the G8 Summit in St Petersburg next weekend.

"The Energy Review has been Blair's exercise in 'consult and ignore'. Despite determined and widespread public opposition, the government remain hell bent on forcing through a new round of dangerous nuclear power stations, and are prepared to subvert planning frameworks to achieve this.

"Local objections to nuclear power plants could be over-ridden under planning changes proposed by the government's energy review. Councils could alter the appearance and precise location of the sites, but would be unable to reject power plants on the grounds they were not needed.

"If Tony Blair is serious about tackling climate change in a sustainable and effective way, he should seize the opportunity of the energy review to ensure that the necessary legislative framework is in place to stake our future on safe, carbon free and inexpensive sources of energy: wind, wave and solar. Succumbing to pressure from the billion pound nuclear lobby means leading the UK down a dirty and dangerous path."

The survey covered attitudes to different energy sources, opinions on the government's energy review, and the actions people might take to support or oppose different energy technologies. The results show huge confidence in the potential of energy saving and renewable energy - particularly solar, wind and wave power - and massive opposition to new nuclear power stations.

Sian Berry, Green Party Campaign's Co-ordinator and a member of the National Executive commented: "The energy survey demonstrates overwhelming support for energy efficiency, renewable energy and smaller scale energy generation, rather than the current centralised system reliant on the wasteful use of fossil fuels and nuclear power. It also found that if new nuclear power stations were approved, 66 per cent of respondents said they would be prepared take part in mass protests against nuclear power.

"The UK's centralised system of giant isolated power stations wastes a staggering two thirds of the primary energy produced before the electricity reaches our homes. The British public want a new green energy future for the UK, based on local generation through combined heat and power in our communities, micro-generation on their homes and places of work supplemented by large scale renewable energy projects. This is more than an unattainable dream, but an achievable vision.

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Government to cut planning restrictions for micro-generation

DCLG News Release 2006/0049

04 July 2006

The Government is to cut planning restrictions on micro-renewable technology as a new report proposes streamlining the planning system for household applications.

Ministers today announced the Government will reduce planning restrictions for small scale micro-generation - including solar panels and small wind-turbines - as part of measures to simplify the planning system around minor developments.

The new report published today by the Government's Householder Development Consents Review Steering Group says certain householder applications and those for small scale micro-renewable technology - such as solar water heating and small wind turbines - should be allowed to go ahead without the need for a planning application. The Government will publish detailed proposals on micro-generation which take account of size and the impact on neighbours in the autumn.

The review also proposes streamlining the planning system for household extensions that require planning permission but where neighbours do not object. The number of household applications has more than doubled over the last ten years yet the vast majority of these are approved with no objection at all. These planning applications create unnecessary costs and delays for householders as well as taking up time and resources for local planning authorities.

The review also says that the need for applications for extensions should be judged on their impact rather than volume or size. Current rules say that if you have already extended your home you may need planning permission for a simple dormer window or conservatory. These rules can also permit developments that overshadow or intrude on privacy simply because they meet arbitrary volume limits.

Following the report the Government is now examining ways to streamline and simplify the system. By focussing on impact, the Government is looking to remove unnecessary applications whilst increasing protections for neighbours. This means the planning system can focus more resources on major developments.

Yvette Cooper said:

"It is absurd that you should be able to put a satellite dish up on your house but should have to wrestle with the planning process for small scale micro-generation which is no more obtrusive and can have a real impact on tackling climate change. We want far more micro-generation to be treated as permitted development and we also should be able to simplify the system for small developments such as extensions."

The Government plans to consult on detailed proposals in the autumn. Any changes to the system will come into effect in 2007.

The Householder Development Consents Review (HDCR) Steering Group Report includes eleven recommendations for making planning controls more proportionate, improving the customer experience and providing greater choice for householders through alternative service providers. Further reforms will be announced in due course.

The Government is also welcoming Kate Barker's interim report on Land Use Planning today which makes clear that further changes are needed to increase the global competitiveness of the UK economy.

Notes to editors

1. The Householder Development Consents Review Steering Group Report published today including full recommendations is available via the following link www.communities.gov.uk/index.asp?id=1501259

2. The micro-generation study is the first phase of the Government's response and forms part of a wider review of permitted development rights. The Government will consult on detailed proposals including a new Householder Permitted Development Order later this year. In due course the Government will also examine ways of streamlining the system for developments that still require planning permission but neighbours do not object.

3. The review was undertaken within the DCLG under the direction of a Steering Group which included representatives from the RTPI, Local Government, National House Building Council, Citizen's Advice Service, Ashford's Future and the Planning Inspectorate and was chaired until October 2005 by former Permanent Secretary Mavis MacDonald. Full details and terms of reference are available via the link above.

4. The Government already promotes the use of micro-renewable technology through the planning system through Planning Policy Statement 22: Renewable Energy. A DCLG survey of local plans published earlier this month reveals many local authorities are now adopting new requirements in their plans for on-site renewable energy in new developments. The Government is now urging all local authorities to do the same and will include this request in the new planning policy statement on climate change due out later this year.

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ENOUGH ENERGY TO POWER HAMPSHIRE TEN TIMES OVER SAYS WHITEHEAD

Alan Whitehead, MP for Southampton Test, said that offshore wind energy would produce enough energy to power Hampshire ten times over.

Speaking in an adjournment debate on Friday, Dr Whitehead argued the case for an extension of the use of wind energy as not only a non-carbon emitting source but a source that can contribute a substantial amount of power to the energy mix – the question is how we move to maximise this contribution by making it a viable option.

The Energy Act of 2004 allowed for a three phase roll out of off wind energy. So far only the first two phases have seen any development: wind farms in inshore waters close to the coast, and larger wind farms slightly further out to sea such as the Wash, Morecombe Bay and the Thames estuary. Dr Whitehead is therefore keen to see the next and third phase rolled out which would allow for the wind farms to be built in deeper and further waters, essentially up to the boundaries of the energy allocation zone for gas and oil.

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The cost of the first is estimated at £2bn and it will take 10 years to put up even if the builders work like the clappers and the Government finds a way to ignore all those pesky protests and legal challenges. To build 10 will take at least two decades. But critics say that blows a hole in Mr Blair's argument for having them. The severe energy shortage that Britain is facing will occur in the next 10 to 15 years. Environmentalists say spending the same billions on the speedier (and cheaper) harnessing of renewable sources such as wind would be better.

Labels: Wind Power

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Sandra Osborne, MP for Ayr Carrick and Cumnock has submitted her views on future energy policy as part of the Government’s Energy Review –"Securing clean, affordable energy for the long term"

In her submission Sandra gives priority to the future role of coal. She states

"In deciding the UK's future energy mix, a diverse, flexible and secure energy supply is essential if we are to achieve targets in cutting the UK's carbon emissions, maintain reliability of energy supplies, raise the rate of sustainable economic growth, promote a competitive energy market in the UK and beyond and ensure that every home is adequately and affordably heated. There is no one single solution which can adequately satisfy all of these demands.

As a Member of Parliament for a number of coalfield communities, I would like to concentrate my submission on coal and particularly the need for clear government support for clean coal technology as part of a balanced energy portfolio which can contribute to improved energy efficiency as well as reduced greenhouse gas emissions."

2350 people in Wales have signed a petition opposing new nuclear power stations in Wales. The petition was presented to 10 Downing Street this morning by a delegation of MPs and representatives of Friend of the Earth, the Centre for Alternative Technology (C.A.T.) and the Plaid Werdd Cymru.

The petition, which has only been running for three months read, "We, the undersigned, strongly oppose the commissioning of any nuclear power stations in Wales and demand safer, cleaner, cheaper technology."

Commenting, Jenny Willott, Welsh Liberal Democrat MP for Cardiff Central, said: "This petition shows there is widespread opposition to nuclear power across Wales. Our message to the Government is clear: nuclear power is not the answer to Wales' energy needs.

"Nuclear power is prohibitively expensive, has a terrible environmental legacy and is a huge security risk. Wales has huge natural resources to provide alternatives to nuclear power, including tidal power, marine currents, solar and wind.

"Even the Secretary of State for Wales, Peter Hain, is anti-nuclear. Tony Blair cannot simply impose a new generation of nuclear power stations in Wales."

Emily's Environment Select Committee have released the result of their inquiry into the future of UK energy. The report says that nuclear power stations cannot contribute to meeting our energy needs or reducing carbon dioxide over the next 10 years. The report raises serious concerns about the use of nuclear power over the longer term, including:

*long-term waste disposal

*public acceptability

*the availability of uranium

*the carbon emissions associated with nuclear.

*safety, the threat of terrorism, and the proliferation of nuclear power across the world.

The committee recommends that the government invest in developing low carbon renewable technologies such as wind, clean coal technology, carbon capture and storage, off-shore wind, and microgeneration. In order to meet our energy needs up to 2016 the government should introduce an extensive programme of new gas-fired power stations, supplemented by a significant growth in renewables.

Labels: Solar Power, Wind Power

Since 1987, we've dedicated more than 100 issues to home-scale renewable energy and sustainable living solutions. That means comprehensive coverage of solar, wind, and microhydro electricity, home energy efficiency, solar hot water systems, space heating and cooling, green building materials and home design, efficient transportation, and much, much more.

Whether you're a do-it-yourselfer or not, off-grid or on-grid, Home Power is here to help you make informed decisions about your home energy use. We provide extensive product information, homeowner testimonials, buyer advice, and "how-to" instructions.

Labels: Solar Power, Wind Power

"A large number of the 'actions' in the strategy are not actions at all, if by that we mean proposed concrete steps to deliver real policy changes," said Seb Berry, head of micro-renewables at the Renewable Energy Association.

"A large number are contingent on further research and review - eg 'DTI will undertake further research and analysis', 'DTI will investigate', and 'Defra will look carefully at'," he said.

Labels: Wind Power

N. Satyanarayana, a graduate student in India, has figured out a way to miniaturize a windmill so it can be used to charge a cellphone battery. It is a simple fan blade that is attached to a generator, also it’s waterproof so it can even be used in the rain. Imagine clipping one of these babies outside the window as you take the train into work, charging up your cellphone and other electronic devices you might have on hand. Its small blade cranks out a DC flow of one ampere with a potential difference of 12 volts, in other words, enough juice to power portable electronic stuff. It beats solar, as long as the wind’s blowing.

Labels: Solar Power, Wind Power

Labels: Wind Power

I fancy having a go at making my own micro wind turbine. Perhaps one of the projects at this site will be suitable.via TreehuggerTechnorati tag: Wind Power

Labels: Wind Power

Labels: Wind Power

The planned construction of Wales' biggest wind farm in the Bristol Channel has been postponed for at least two years.

Work on 30 turbines, each 400ft tall, at Scarweather Sands off Porthcawl, was due to start in 2006.

But developers E.ON UK and Energi E2 said on Monday that the project was currently not financially viable.

Labels: Wind Power

Nuclear power may have to be embraced in a bid to combat climate change even though it is not a "sustainable" energy source, Margaret Beckett has admitted.

The environment secretary said she was very reluctant to build new nuclear power stations, but that she had "accepted that it could happen".

But Mrs Beckett said any investment in nuclear must not be at the expense of renewable energy sources.

Labels: Solar Power, Wind Power

Labels: Wind Power

A two-day meeting of energy and environment ministers from 20 nations opens in London on Tuesday.

The focus will be on curbing climate change through technology rather than binding international agreements.

The British government, which hosts the talks as the current holder of the G8 presidency, may unveil a new domestic initiative on biofuels.

Labels: Solar Power, Wind Power

Labels: Wind Power

Anti-nuclear activists have replied to advocates of nuclear power with a comprehensively damning report, "Nuclear power - no solution to climate change".

[....]

The report says that a doubling of nuclear power output by 2050 would reduce greenhouse gas emissions by just 5%, while increasing the hazards of potential nuclear accidents, terrorism, nuclear proliferation and the still unsolved problem of waste storage. The report outlines that the solutions to greenhouse gas emissions from energy production lie in energy efficiency and renewable energy generation, such as in wind, bio-energy, solar and tidal power.

Labels: Solar Power, Wind Power

Labels: Wind Power

Labels: Solar Power, Wind Power

Labels: Wind Power

Ken Lewis, CFS resources director, said: "As an insurer, CIS is already experiencing the reality of climate change impacts. Over the past decade, CIS has seen claims arising from environmental flooding increase almost 500 per cent and these now total more than £1.5m per annum.

"About 40 per cent of Europe's energy use is associated with buildings. This turbine project, with the solar CIS Tower work, demonstrates these piles of steel and concrete have tremendous potential for future energy generation."

Labels: Solar Power, Wind Power

Greenpeace and the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) today launched 'Windforce 12', a global wind energy blueprint that describes how wind power can supply 12% of the world's electricity by 2020. The report is a crucial tool in the race to cut greenhouse gas emissions, showing that by 2020, 1,250 GW of wind power can be installed saving a cumulative 10,771 million tonnes of carbon dioxide, a key contributor to climate change. Wind Force 12 demonstrates that there are no technical, economic or resource barriers to supplying 12% of the world's electricity needs with wind power alone by 2020 - against the challenging backdrop of a projected two thirds increase of electricity demand by that date.

Labels: Wind Power

Labels: Wind Power

Labels: Biodiesel, Solar Power, Wind Power

Labels: Wind Power

The full development, costing up to £1.5bn, will require up to 270 wind turbines to generate 1,000 megawatts and would connect into the National Grid's transmission system in Kent. The turbines would be located in the outer Thames Estuary, more than 20 kilometres offshore and equidistant from the coasts of Essex and Kent. Due to the distance of the wind farm from the shore, there is expected to be little visual impact from the coastline.

Labels: Wind Power

Labels: Wind Power

Labels: Solar Power, Wind Power