IChemE slams Government over energy plan

London — The Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) has described the Government Energy Review as a “major disappointment” that leaves the UK back where it was three years ago. The industry body is particularly concerned about the lack of firm short-term measures in the proposals published 11 July.

“Decisions are needed now,” according to IChemE energy spokesman David White, pointing out that the UK must replace over a third of generating capacity within the next 15 years.

“Continuity of electricity supply is vital to any developed society while its low cost is essential for a competitive economy and to avoid fuel poverty. The review is thin on any clear decisions,” added White.

According to an IChemE statement, the replacement of existing nuclear capacity with carbon-free capacity is the minimum needed to maintain the status quo on carbon emissions. This must either be nuclear or fossil fuel plants with CO2 capture technologies.

“Both will be needed to move towards the government’s 2050 target. The use of the word ‘could’ in the context of the contribution from nuclear power suggests that the government had ducked the issue yet again,” explained White.

On a more positive note, the IChemE welcomed Government proposals to speed up planning approvals for building power plants and the “positive signals” in the area of carbon capture. Against this, the group expressed concern that the commercial and technical challenges of using renewable energy sources was being downplayed.