Economic benefits of renewable energy outlined

Renewable energy could reap "significant economic and social benefits" for the UK, according to a report out today.

According to the Renewables Supply Chain Gap Analysis between 17,000 to 35,000 jobs could be sustained by renewables in the UK by 2020. Currently, there are some 8,000 people working in the sector.

The study – an assessment of the current status of the renewables industry in the UK and the future potential for employment – was commissioned by the Renewables Advisory Board (RAB) and was led by a steering group comprising RAB, DTI's Renewables UK, the Scottish Executive, Scottish Enterprise and Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

The renewable energy technologies reviewed included: wind (onshore and offshore), wave, tidal, hydro, biomass, biofuels, waste to energy, landfill, solar thermal, photovoltaics, fuel cells, geothermal, hydrogen and energy storage. The study identified the services, research, design and manufacturing capability associated with all these technologies.

In his foreword to the report, jointly signed by the Lewis Macdonald – Deputy Minister for Enterprise and Lifelong Learning at the Scottish Executive – Energy Minister Stephen Timms said: "The development of renewable energy is an important part of our efforts to tackle climate change.

"But it also offers a huge opportunity to enhance our manufacturing capacity and provide new employment, particularly in the remoter areas."

He added: "We believe that the report will provide us all – industry and the public sector alike – with information about what steps must be taken for the UK to become a major player in renewable energy technology manufacture and supply."

More than 2,300 companies currently active in the industry were sent a questionnaire to understand their activities, skills, needs, plans and perceived barriers. A total of 559 questionnaires were received, representing a response rate of 24%.

(gmcg)