Microgeneration Potential for the UK

The final report -- Potential for Microgeneration, Study and Analysis -- was commissioned by the UK government's Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to inform the Low Carbon Building program and the wider microgeneration strategy, and is to be published in spring 2006. It examines the current status of the industry and perceived barriers to the wider uptake of the different types of technology. It has also suggested when each of these technologies could become more cost effective.

Among the main findings is the statement that by 2050 microgeneration could potentially provide 30-40 percent of the UK's total electricity needs and that by 2050 microgeneration could help to reduce CO2 emissions by 15 percent per year.

"Our findings paint a promising picture for the future energy needs of the UK," said Philip Sellwood, The Chief Executive of the Energy Saving Trust. "Over the next 10 to 40 years a large proportion of homes in the UK could be generating their own energy, saving tons of carbon dioxide emissions and helping to prevent climate change."

The country's Energy Minister, Malcolm Wicks also commented on the report. "I would like more micro wind turbines, solar panels and other technologies on schools, homes and businesses as they can make a real difference in reducing the UK's carbon emissions, as well as helping people to understand better where our energy comes from and increase their energy efficiency," Wicks said.

A full copy of the report can be found at the following link.