The policy gaps

It says one big omission concerns non-CO₂ greenhouse gas emissions from farming. There is a policy vacuum here and the government is urged to fill it. It also calls for:

• An improved subsidy regime and fewer planning restrictions for renewable energy sources.
• Certainty that the EUETS will continue beyond 2020 with a minimum carbon price, to encourage nuclear power, carbon capture and storage (CCS) and renewables.
• No new coal-fired power stations to be allowed unless they can fit CCS plant by the early 2020s.
• Promoting home heating by burning wood and biogas and by fitting heat pumps and solar water heaters. The government is soon to publish a draft renewable heat strategy.
• Schemes stronger than CERT (see p 12) for encouraging more home insulation, plus lifestyle measures such as turning down central heating thermostats by one degree.
• Stronger energy efficiency standards for office and household appliances and electronic equipment.
• Small business energy conservation policies.
• Policies to promote walking, cycling or use of public transport and fuel-efficient driving habits.
• Policies for greener cars and vans, including battery-powered and plug-in hybrids.
• More promotion of biofuels for road vehicles.