Energy white paper delivers blow to nuclear.

Energy white paper delivers blow to nuclear.

The government’s energy white paper, published today, has delivered what may be a critical blow to the nuclear industry by refusing any alterations to the market in favour of the power.

The contents of the white paper regarding nuclear energy were hinted at earlier this month with the resignation of BNFL chief executive Norman Askew, which many saw as an indication that the government was losing faith in the platform. Today’s announcement effectively rules out any new build for nuclear, unless as a last resort. However the massive potential of renewable forms should ensure that this never happens. The country’s newest nuclear reactor, Sizewell B, is expected to reach the end of its working life in 2035.

The white paper titled – ‘Our Energy Future - Creating a Low Carbon Economy’, promotes an increase use of renewable power forms and energy efficiency, to meet emissions targets. A carbon dioxide reduction of 60% by 2050 has been outlined as a key element of future energy policies.

The target goes beyond that of the Kyoto Protocol, both in terms of dates and emission reduction, in what could be interpreted as a challenge to the US stance on climate change. Issues that have been viewed as barriers to renewable new-build, such as planning permission, will be worked on to encourage as much development as possible in the area.

Despite the apparent support of renewable energy, the white paper drew scepticism from some green quarters. The Green Party’s Principal Speaker, Margaret Wright, commented; "Green spin and greenwash have been prime characteristics of Tony Blair's government. On a number of occasions now we've heard him say all the right things and then do the opposite. He's a serial offender so we need to take his track record into account."