Green energy push planned for UK

"BBC NEWS | UK | Green energy push planned for UK
As many as a quarter of British homes could be fitted with solar heating panels under new government plans for a 'green revolution'. Energy Minister Malcolm Wicks told BBC Radio 4's Today programme that the new proposals are 'the most ambitious' such strategy that Britain has seen.

The goal is to meet the EU target of 15% of energy from renewables by 2020. But at a time of consumer anger over fuel prices, the plan concedes that green power will cost more."

More? How can it cost more? Its free! Or are New Labour going to tax sunshine now?

It should already be part of the building regulations that all new buildings, domestic or industrial, should have solar water heating. Why not have around 80% of your hot water heating free?

BBC NEWS | UK | Green energy push planned for UK

Darling 'seeks energy cost talks'
Chancellor Alistair Darling has asked to meet with energy regulator Ofgem to discuss last week's gas and electricity price rises by Npower, a report says. In a letter to Ofgem, obtained by the Times, Mr Darling is said to want to review the reasons behind the price hikes and their implications. Npower, which has increased average gas prices by 17.2% and electricity by 12.7%, expects rivals to follow suit.

Perhaps he's concerned because such big rises draw attention to what a load of tosh the Government's official inflation figure is?

BBC NEWS | Business | Darling 'seeks energy cost talks'

"US House passes clean energy bill
The draft law aims to boost US use of renewable energy
The US House of Representatives has passed a radical new energy bill, which aims to expand the use of renewable fuels and cut tax breaks to oil firms. The draft law details support for 'clean' energy sources like biofuels, wind, solar and geothermal resources."

Lets hope this doesn't lead to yet more US-owned or US-backed companies hacking down yet more rainforest.

"It would withdraw some $16bn (£8bn) in annual subsidies from the oil industry. But the bill is opposed by President George Bush, and still has to be merged with other energy measures passed by the Senate before it can become law."

Bush - opposed to subsidy cuts to the oil industry - well isn't that a surprise.

BBC NEWS | World | Americas | US House passes clean energy bill

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