Research Objectives
To understand by talking to both utilities professionals within energy generation and the general public:
- How much electricity prices will rise to meet the EU 20/20 target
- How resistant the public are to paying more for their energy
Key Findings - Utility Professionals
- More than 35% of electricity generation will need to come from renewable sources in order to meet the 2020 target.
- Average price rise is expected to be 18%.
- Offshore and onshore wind are expected to be key contributors to achieving targets.
- Both distributed generation and micro renewables are expected to show growth over the next 5 years, with a quarter expecting a large growth in distributed generation.
- Opinion was split over whether nuclear power should be included as a renewable.
- The three key areas for investment are onshore and offshore wind and biomass sources.
- Barriers to increasing renewable output include planning and lack of grid connectivity.
- Improved ROC scheme and grid connections are the most preferred measures for the government to boost renewables.
- Two thirds are very confident that their company has the information they need to help make decisions related to reducing emissions.
- The most effective part of climate change strategy is considered to be renewable energy, followed by nuclear, and energy efficiency.
Key Findings - Bill Payers
- The consumer survey shows a relatively positive response to the government targets, with 60% willing to pay the increase level of power bills.
- Only a third felt that the government should abandon or modify the targets because of the cost implications.
- Most are trying to reduce their energy consumption within their household, with only 7% claiming not to be trying at all.