Government wants advice on renewable energy

Energy minister Malcolm Wicks has launched a “call for evidence” document that encourages responses from UK firms. He wants to know what renewable heat sources exist and how to “de-carbonise” heating systems.

Wicks said: “Heating our homes and businesses accounts for nearly half of the UK’s energy demand and for almost half of our carbon dioxide emissions. Keeping warm at the same time as tackling global warming is a big challenge.

“We are looking for technical contributions and firm evidence of what the government needs to do to develop renewable heat such as biomass, heat pumps and biogas. Also advice on what role low-carbon electricity should play in heating and how surplus heat can be captured, transported and reused to heat local buildings rather than going to waste.”

The call seeks advice on how technologies such as combined heat and power, renewable heat, heat from waste, and district heat could be further developed.

To respond, email heatevidence@berr.gsi.gov.uk by 31 March.