In the framework of the Coalition's Programme for Government, Energy and Climate Change Secretary issued its first Annual Energy Statement which recalibrates the UK's energy and climate change policy for the long term and is supported by comprehensive analysis of potential pathways towards a low carbon energy system in 2050.
Groundbreaking ‘2050’ analysis published alongside includes six illustrative ‘pathways’ showing that meeting the target of an 80% cut in emissions by 2050 is ambitious but achievable, and compatible with maintaining security of energy supplies. A do-nothing ‘reference’ scenario highlights the risks of a high carbon future. An online ‘2050 Calculator’ also goes live today, enabling the public to explore the trade-offs inherent in designing the future secure, low carbon energy system and wider economy.
The report sets out 32 important actions to introduce the transparency, certainty and long-termism needed to unlock investment, summarised in four keys areas:
- Saving energy through the Green Deal and supporting vulnerable consumers;
- Delivering secure energy on the way to a low carbon energy future;
- Managing our energy legacy responsibly and cost-effectively;
- Driving ambitious action on climate change at home and abroad.