GOVERNMENT PULLS PLUG ON SOLAR SUBSIDIES – FRIENDS OF THE EARTH REACTION

Energy savings through heated pipes

Energy savings through heated pipes

Image by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

The move is the latest Government attack on the development of a green UK economy following the implementation of a ‘carbon tax’ on renewable energy, increased levies on green cars and the scrapping of the zero carbon homes target.

Friends of the Earth energy campaigner Alasdair Cameron said:

“This latest attack on the green economy will cast a long shadow over the UK solar industry, and undermine efforts to tackle climate change.

“This won't lower electricity bills - all new energy is being subsidised to some extent and solar is already cheaper than nuclear and will soon be cheaper than gas from new power stations.

“This is entirely a problem of the Government’s creation. The Treasury has placed arbitrary limits on clean power, but solar has proved too popular and efficient, and the Government seems to lack the imagination to adapt.

“If David Cameron wants to have any credibility ahead of this year’s crucial climate talks, he must end his support for dirty fossil fuels, such as fracking, and stop his government destroying the UK’s burgeoning renewable sector.”

However, Friends of the Earth welcomed news that curbs were being placed on converting large coal plants to burn biomass, wood fuel.

“We welcome Government moves to stop some forms of biomass from getting support. Burning wood for fuel can be worse than burning coal, and energy sources that cannot show significant carbon reductions shouldn’t get support.”

ENDS

Notes:

1. For more than 40 years we’ve seen that the wellbeing of people and planet go hand in hand – and it’s been the inspiration for our campaigns. Together with thousands of people like you we’ve secured safer food and water, defended wildlife and natural habitats, championed the move to clean energy and acted to keep our climate stable. Be a Friend of the Earth – see things differently. For further information visit www.foe.co.uk, follow us at @wwwfoecouk, or like our Facebook page.

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