WWF UK is warning that the UK’s pole position in offshore wind energy could well be undermined if oil and gas continues to be prioritised off the UK’s coast to the detriment of renewables. WWF officials are urging the Government to stand by its commitment for a ‘green economy’ and make a stand at the forthcoming Energy Bill to remove any barriers that could well endanger future targets.
Head of Energy Policy at WWF-UK, Nick Molho, said –
For decades, the oil and gas industry has benefited from a very favourable environment with tax breaks, which are still being granted today, and more recently with an exemption from the licensing requirements of the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009. The Government really needs to shift the focus of its energy policy away from oil and gas and instead unambiguously support the renewable energy industry, which is the industry of the future. The new Government has a great opportunity to improve the investment climate for renewable energy in the forthcoming Energy Bill. The renewables industry clearly offers the greatest long term employment, environmental and energy security potential for the UK.
A little known clause has been discovered by WWF officials within Crown Estate leases which can terminate existing rights to offshore wind farm operators whenever the government allows a license for oil and gas exploration in the same area. This bizarre ruling not only means that wind farm operators will lose their lease, they will also face the decommissioning costs of their revoked lease without compensation.
This law in turn is sure to put off potential investors in wind farming due to the uncertainty over the financial viability. WWF UK is calling for a new legislation in forthcoming Energy Bill to provide investors with the knowledge that renewable energy projects in the UK will be able to operate on a level playing field at the very least.
Help WWF UK with a Charity Gift
The WWF is a non profit organisation who can only sustain their tireless work in saving the planet and its inhabitants through donations. You can help raise funds through the WWF Adopt an Animal scheme.
From as little as £3 a month you receive a certificate, a print of your animal, a greetings card, and a soft toy that would make a fantastic charity gift for a loved one.
> > Click here to Adopt an Animal with WWF UK
View other top charity gifts
