Uk Prime Minister Puts Renewable Energy Focus On Offshore Wind

Prime Minister David Cameron has said the UK needs a "bold transformation" of the nations low carbon energy mix with plans for offshore wind and a new generation of nuclear and modern gas power plants.

In a speech yesterday to the Institute of Civil Engineering, the Prime Minister said the UK is well-placed to be a world leader in offshore wind power and added his Government was doing all it could to make sure it happens.

Mr Cameron used the speech to explain the UKs national infrastructure plan and described how the nation needs to "find diverse, secure sources of energy that can meet demand, keep prices stable and cut the impact of carbon on the planet".

He described how renewable energy is the "final component" in a balanced energy mix and added: "Our focus here will be on offshore wind, for hard-headed reasons.

"It is secure, generated at home rather than imported."

"And it's one of the world's fastest growing energy sources, which means substantial economic opportunities."

"I believe we are well-placed to become a world leader in offshore wind power - and this Government is doing all it can to make sure that happens."

"However, the Prime Minister said the country was currently powered through an out-of-date, inefficient grid and ageing, polluting power stations."

"He added: "We need to replace coal plants, invest in modern gas power and affordable renewable energy."

"Gas power will continue to be absolutely vital for our electricity system - and we will work with industry to develop a new gas generation strategy that draws in investment and secures electricity supply."

"Today, nuclear energy forms the backbone of our low-carbon generation fleet but the nine plants still left in service in Britain are reaching the end of their life."

"I'm convinced that we need to press ahead with their replacement - but that involves three big challenges."

"One - getting the price right, without state subsidy."

"Two - getting plants built on time."

"Three - making sure we maximise the economic benefits to the UK in terms of skills, jobs and manufacturing."

The PM concluded his speech on energy by saying: "So today I can confirm our intention to work with the private sector to deliver the new plants that companies would like to build between now and 2030."

"Source: ClickGreen"