Natural England - Energy

Energy

Energy, in the form of electricity, heat and transport fuel, is used in almost every part of our lives. Global energy demand is increasing, with future growth particularly expected to come from today's developing countries where we see GDP growth, energy-intensive industrialisation and rapid population growth. This is putting increased pressure on dwindling fossil fuel resources, such as oil and gas. It is also causing greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to climate change.

Energy generation and the natural environment

Maintaining reliable and affordable energy supplies is essential to our modern lifestyle. Climate change creates the imperative to develop clean energy supplies to reduce the long term impact on the natural environment.

Different energy developments have different impacts on the natural environment. These impacts vary in terms of their significance and reversibility according to the energy generation technology, their scale and location.

We believe the Government needs to carry out a strategic assessment of the best energy mix that will deliver its renewable energy target. In doing that, they should ensure that investment in renewable energy options avoids unacceptable impacts on the natural environment.

Natural England will work proactively with the energy industry to identify areas where energy development minimises irreversible or unacceptable effects on the natural environment.

Conventional energy generation and the future energy challenges

In 2006, the UK energy supply came from:

  • fossil fuels, such as oil, gas and coal, including imports (90 per cent)
  • nuclear generation (8 per cent), and
  • renewable sources (less than 5 per cent).

Energy use is split roughly equally between the domestic, commercial and transport sectors.

By 2020, we will see a different picture. To meet EU targets, renewable energy must provide at least 15 per cent of our energy needs. Beyond 2020, nuclear power, renewable technologies and clean coal are likely to be the largest contributors to the UK’s energy mix.

The Government has two long-term challenges for energy:

  • reducing carbon dioxide emissions
  • ensuring the security of energy supply as the UK becomes increasingly dependent on imported fuel.

Implementing energy efficiency measures within all aspects of the UK’s energy generation and infrastructure has become a top priority for the UK Government.

Select a region