The power sector
The power sector is the largest source of emissions in the UK and globally – accounting for roughly a third of all emissions. Indeed, in the UK burning coal supplies over a third of the electricity we use and this percentage will increase if the government gives the go-ahead to unabated coal. However, rapid decarbonisation of the power sector is achievable, cost-effective and a stepping stone towards decarbonisation of other more challenging sectors such as surface transport.
Our aim is to secure a rapid reduction in carbon emissions from the power sector such that by 2035 it is carbon free. Work on this sector falls under three main categories:
The threat of unabated coal
Coal is the most polluting of all fossil fuels. Proposals for a new generation of coal-fired power stations in the UK and EU are therefore a cause for great concern.
Energy demand reduction and energy efficiency
Figures show that energy demand from UK households increased by 18% between 1990 and 2006, and our homes now contribute to 27% to our carbon footprint.
Renewable energy
The UK has a vast potential in renewable energy resources – one of the largest in the northern hemisphere for wave and tidal power.