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March 19, 2010

Energy efficiency pledge for Welsh homes

Homes in Wales are to benefit from up to £34 million in funding from Europe, allocated to them to boost energy efficiency.

Continue reading " Energy efficiency pledge for Welsh homes "

 

Kilgallioch Forest 132-turbine wind farm plan submitted

An application for a 132-wind turbine project in southern Scotland has been submitted to the Scottish government.

Continue reading " Kilgallioch Forest 132-turbine wind farm plan submitted "

 

March 17, 2010

'Milestone' for wave energy plans

Ten sites on the seabed off the north coast of Scotland have been leased out to power companies in an effort to generate wave and tidal energy.

Continue reading " 'Milestone' for wave energy plans "

 

March 16, 2010

Petrol prices set for record high, says AA

Petrol prices could hit a record high of £1.20 a litre in the next few weeks, according to the AA.

Continue reading " Petrol prices set for record high, says AA "

 

March 15, 2010

Coal power station plan under way

The first stage of a planning process to build a coal-fired power station in Ayrshire is to get under way on Monday.

Continue reading " Coal power station plan under way "

 

March 14, 2010

Future of energy brings opportunities as well as challenges - Tesco

Fluctuating prices, questions over security of supply and concerns about emissions make the life of an energy buyer fraught with difficulties, but it is important not to get sucked down into the mire.

Continue reading " Future of energy brings opportunities as well as challenges - Tesco "

 

February 26, 2010

Whaling worsens carbon release, scientists warn

A century of whaling may have released more than 100 million tonnes - or a large forest's worth - of carbon into the atmosphere, scientists say.

Continue reading " Whaling worsens carbon release, scientists warn "

 

February 25, 2010

Biofuel power plant plan refused

An application to build a biofuel power station at Avonmouth, capable of powering 25,000 homes, has been refused by city councillors.

Continue reading " Biofuel power plant plan refused "

 

February 17, 2010

US to build two new nuclear power stations

President Barack Obama has announced more than $8bn (£5bn) of federal loan guarantees to begin building the first US nuclear power stations for 30 years.

Continue reading " US to build two new nuclear power stations "

 

February 15, 2010

BA agrees deal for UK jet biofuel plant

British Airways has struck a deal to build the first plant in Europe to produce jet fuel from waste matter.

Continue reading " BA agrees deal for UK jet biofuel plant "

 

February 10, 2010

Baltic Nord Stream gas pipeline safe, Putin says

Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin has defended his country's Nord Stream gas pipeline against accusations that it will damage the fragile Baltic Sea.

Continue reading " Baltic Nord Stream gas pipeline safe, Putin says "

 

February 4, 2010

British Gas cuts gas prices by 7%

British Gas has announced it is cutting standard household gas prices by an average of 7%, with immediate effect.

Continue reading " British Gas cuts gas prices by 7% "

 

February 3, 2010

Fears over future power shortages

Mainland Britain could face power shortages in the years ahead, according to the energy regulator, Ofgem.

Continue reading " Fears over future power shortages "

 

Brazil grants environmental licence for Belo Monte dam

Brazil's government has granted an environmental licence for the construction of a controversial hydro-electric dam in the Amazon rainforest.

Continue reading " Brazil grants environmental licence for Belo Monte dam "

 

January 29, 2010

Laser fusion test results raise energy hopes

A major hurdle to producing fusion energy using lasers has been swept aside, results in a new report show.

Continue reading " Laser fusion test results raise energy hopes "

 

January 28, 2010

First report into biofuel sustainability

Not enough big firms are sourcing their biofuels sustainably, according to the first report into the industry's green credentials.

Continue reading " First report into biofuel sustainability "

 

January 22, 2010

Carbon nanotubes used to make batteries from fabrics

Ordinary cotton and polyester fabrics have been turned into batteries that retain their flexibility.

Continue reading " Carbon nanotubes used to make batteries from fabrics "

 

January 14, 2010

Hydro scheme awarded major prize

A UK scheme to generate power from mountain streams is one of three winners of a £1m prize for saving carbon emissions at the local level.

Continue reading " Hydro scheme awarded major prize "

 

January 13, 2010

Solar cells made through oil-and-water 'self-assembly'

Researchers have demonstrated a simple, cheap way to create self-assembling electronic devices using a property crucial to salad dressings.

Continue reading " Solar cells made through oil-and-water 'self-assembly' "

 

January 8, 2010

Gas usage hits new high in UK cold snap

Demand for gas in the UK hit a new record on Thursday as people continue to attempt to keep their homes warm through the severely cold weather.

Continue reading " Gas usage hits new high in UK cold snap "

 

Green Party calls energy firms 'irresponsible'

Energy providers have been criticised by the Green Party for failing in their responsibilities to consumers.

Continue reading " Green Party calls energy firms 'irresponsible' "

 

New wind farm zones are announced

Successful bids for nine new offshore wind farm zone licences within UK waters have been announced.

Continue reading " New wind farm zones are announced "

 

Wind farms: Generating power and jobs?

Prime Minister Gordon Brown is launching a £100bn programme to build thousands of offshore wind farms.

Continue reading " Wind farms: Generating power and jobs? "

 

January 7, 2010

Gas usage set to hit new record

Demand for gas in the UK is set to hit a new record on Thursday as people attempt to keep their homes warm through the severely cold weather.

Continue reading " Gas usage set to hit new record "

 

January 6, 2010

The power, glory and controversy

First Minister Alex Salmond believes Scotland has hit the energy jackpot for the second time.

Continue reading " The power, glory and controversy "

 

January 5, 2010

Boiler scrappage scheme launched

A government scheme that gives households in England £400 off the cost of a new boiler has been launched.

Continue reading " Boiler scrappage scheme launched "

 

December 15, 2009

Petrol prices push up inflation

UK inflation picked up pace in November, driven largely by higher petrol prices, official figures show.

Continue reading " Petrol prices push up inflation "

 

December 1, 2009

Solar panel costs 'set to fall'

The cost of installing and owning solar panels will fall even faster than expected according to new research.

Continue reading " Solar panel costs 'set to fall' "

 

November 30, 2009

India nuclear plant leak under investigation

Indian officials are investigating the leak of a radioactive substance into drinking water at an atomic power plant in the south of the country.

Continue reading " India nuclear plant leak under investigation "

 

November 26, 2009

Wind turbine noise rules are outdated, say campaigners

The government urgently needs to update its guidance on how local authorities should assess the impact of noise from wind turbines, campaigners have said.

Continue reading " Wind turbine noise rules are outdated, say campaigners "

 

UK plutonium cuts strategy 'in disarray' - scientists

The UK's plan to cut its stockpile of separated plutonium is in "disarray", a group of scientists has warned.

Continue reading " UK plutonium cuts strategy 'in disarray' - scientists "

 

November 24, 2009

British Gas offers accurate bills instead of estimates

British Gas is giving customers the option of paying accurate energy bills each month, instead of relying largely on estimated meter readings.

Continue reading " British Gas offers accurate bills instead of estimates "

 

November 19, 2009

Energy-saving bulbs 'get dimmer'

Energy-efficient light bulbs lose on average 22% of their brightness over their lifetime, a study has found.

Continue reading " Energy-saving bulbs 'get dimmer' "

 

Power-guzzling TVs to be banned

Energy-hungry television sets will soon be banned across California in a landmark move by state legislators to reduce energy consumption.

Continue reading " Power-guzzling TVs to be banned "

 

November 12, 2009

UK renewable targets likely to be hampered by supply chain issues

Unresolved supply issues may block the UK government's plan to have 15 percent of renewable energy come from biomass, it was claimed today.

Continue reading " UK renewable targets likely to be hampered by supply chain issues "

 

November 10, 2009

Nuclear energy 'not the solution'

The government should focus on all forms of technology, not just nuclear, in order to meet its low carbon targets, according to the Renewable Energy Centre.

Continue reading " Nuclear energy 'not the solution' "

 

All change as gas reserves soar

With coal being too dirty and wind farms and nuclear power plants arriving late, it seems the world is left with a stark choice: keep on polluting or turn out the lights.

Continue reading " All change as gas reserves soar "

 

November 9, 2009

Scottish government announce heat plans

Biomass will play a major part in Scotland achieving their 2020 target of 11 percent of heat coming from renewable sources, according to a new publication.

Continue reading " Scottish government announce heat plans "

 

Nuclear fast-track plan awaited

Plans for fast-tracking a new generation of nuclear power stations are to be announced by the government.

Continue reading " Nuclear fast-track plan awaited "

 

November 5, 2009

Light down a wire for solar power

Solar power could be produced cheaply in specially designed optical fibres, say researchers.

Continue reading " Light down a wire for solar power "

 

November 3, 2009

Australia oil well catches fire

An oil well at the centre of a massive spill in the Timor Sea off the north-west coast of Australia is on fire.

Continue reading " Australia oil well catches fire "

 

October 23, 2009

'Stealth' wind turbine deployed

A wind turbine blade that absorbs radar signals has been demonstrated at a wind farm in eastern England.

Continue reading " 'Stealth' wind turbine deployed "

 

October 15, 2009

Australia 'open' to atomic energy

There has been a significant shift in support for nuclear power in Australia, according to a poll.

Continue reading " Australia 'open' to atomic energy "

 

October 9, 2009

Fear of 'huge' energy bill rises

Domestic UK energy bills could rise by 60% by 2016 in a worst-case scenario identified by the energy regulator.

Continue reading " Fear of 'huge' energy bill rises "

 

New Kingsnorth coal plant delayed

Controversial plans to build a new coal-fired power station at Kingsnorth in Kent have been put on hold for up to three years, energy firm E.On has said.

Continue reading " New Kingsnorth coal plant delayed "

 

Tiny 'nuclear batteries' unveiled

Researchers have demonstrated a penny-sized "nuclear battery" that produces energy from the decay of radioisotopes.

Continue reading " Tiny 'nuclear batteries' unveiled "

 

October 8, 2009

New Kingsnorth coal plant delayed

Controversial plans to build a new coal-fired power station at Kingsnorth in Kent have been put on hold for up to three years, energy firm E.On has said.

Continue reading " New Kingsnorth coal plant delayed "

 

Warning over global oil 'decline'

There is a "significant risk" that global production of conventional oil could "peak" and decline by 2020, a report has warned.

Continue reading " Warning over global oil 'decline' "

 

October 7, 2009

Scilly switch-off short of target

Organisers of an energy switch-off on the Isles of Scilly achieved only a 1% drop in power usage but they insist that the experiment was a success.

Continue reading " Scilly switch-off short of target "

 

October 5, 2009

Smart meters 'need live displays'

The government should require power companies to provide clear visual displays when they install smart meters in homes, says a report.

Continue reading " Smart meters 'need live displays' "

 

September 22, 2009

Power firm generates investment

The company behind the Oyster wave-powered generator has raised £10m in its first round of fund raising.

Continue reading " Power firm generates investment "

 

September 15, 2009

No power cuts danger - Miliband

There is "no danger" of mass power cuts in the UK during the next decade, Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has said.

Continue reading " No power cuts danger - Miliband "

 

September 11, 2009

UK 'could face blackouts by 2016'

The government's new energy adviser says the UK could face blackouts by 2016 because green energy is not coming on stream fast enough.

Continue reading " UK 'could face blackouts by 2016' "

 

September 9, 2009

US firm in China solar mega-deal

US energy group First Solar has signed a preliminary deal to build the world's biggest solar power plant in China.

Continue reading " US firm in China solar mega-deal "

 

September 2, 2009

BP discovers 'giant' new oil well

Oil giant BP has said it has made a "giant" new oil discovery in its fields in the Gulf of Mexico.

Continue reading " BP discovers 'giant' new oil well "

 

September 1, 2009

End in sight for 100W light bulb

A European Union ban on the manufacture and import of 100 watt and frosted incandescent light bulbs, in use since the 19th Century, has come into force.

Continue reading " End in sight for 100W light bulb "

 

Winning over the 'Nimby blockade'

Developers of wind turbines and other energy schemes need to learn to work with - not against - local communities to get their plans approved, according to a new UK government study.

Continue reading " Winning over the 'Nimby blockade' "

 

August 27, 2009

Pensioner's £67,000 power bill

A County Londonderry pensioner who has lived without electricity for 27 years has been told NIE will charge him £67,000 to link his home to the grid.

Continue reading " Pensioner's £67,000 power bill "

 

August 24, 2009

BRC calls for VAT change on energy-efficent appliances

VAT should be removed entirely from energy-efficient appliances and a car industry style scrappage scheme considered. This would help households cut their fuel bills by switching to low emissions-generating products.

Continue reading " BRC calls for VAT change on energy-efficent appliances "

 

August 20, 2009

Wind turbine milestone for Oxford

Oxford says it has become the first city in England and Wales to commit to having a commercial-scale wind turbine on council land.

Continue reading " Wind turbine milestone for Oxford "

 

August 10, 2009

Report says UK on track to energy security

According to a new report commissioned by the Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, the UK is on course to achieve its objective of securing its energy supplies, both domestically and internationally.

Continue reading " Report says UK on track to energy security "

 

August 5, 2009

Energy efficiency investment could 'save US $1.2 trillion'

Improving energy efficiency in buildings could save the US economy $1.2 trillion by 2020 according to a respected team of analysts.

Continue reading " Energy efficiency investment could 'save US $1.2 trillion' "

 

August 4, 2009

Coventry-based energy firm E.ON rapped over windfarm advert

Coventry-based energy firm E.ON has been told to axe adverts for a windfarm that used “misleading images”.

Continue reading " Coventry-based energy firm E.ON rapped over windfarm advert "

 

Rooftop demo to support workers

Five people have begun a rooftop protest on the Isle of Wight over the planned closure of a wind turbine blade factory, with the loss of 625 jobs.

Continue reading " Rooftop demo to support workers "

 

July 27, 2009

Gull killer turbines are removed

An aquarium in Devon has taken down two wind turbines after seagulls were killed when they collided with the blades.

Continue reading " Gull killer turbines are removed "

 

Objection to wind farm over birds

RSPB Scotland has lodged an objection to plans for Scotland's largest community wind farm, on Shetland.

Continue reading " Objection to wind farm over birds "

 

July 24, 2009

Fuel scheme 'failing the poorest'

A scheme aimed at improving households' fuel efficiency and cutting fuel poverty is "failing the poorest and most vulnerable", MPs have said.

Continue reading " Fuel scheme 'failing the poorest' "

 

EDF fined £2m for 'poor' service

EDF Energy Networks has been fined £2m for poor customer service, industry regulator Ofgem has said.

Continue reading " EDF fined £2m for 'poor' service "

 

July 22, 2009

Sit-in turbine staff 'face sack'

A protester claims the 30 demonstrators at a sit-in at the Vestas wind turbine factory on the Isle of Wight have been told they will be sacked.

Continue reading " Sit-in turbine staff 'face sack' "

 

Planes 'should fly on biofuels'

Biofuel research should focus on planes and not cars, the think tank Policy Exchange has said.

Continue reading " Planes 'should fly on biofuels' "

 

July 13, 2009

Energy policy 'too wind focused'

The UK must invest more in nuclear and clean coal energy and put less emphasis on wind power if it wants a secure low-carbon future, business leaders say.

Continue reading " Energy policy 'too wind focused' "

 

'Cashback' pledge for green power

Households which contribute electricity to the National Grid are to receive payments under a new government scheme.

Continue reading " 'Cashback' pledge for green power "

 

July 9, 2009

Nuclear dawn delayed in Finland

When it is finished, Finland's Olkiluoto 3 (OL3) nuclear reactor will be the biggest the world has ever seen, the excavation site alone is the size of 55 football fields.

Continue reading " Nuclear dawn delayed in Finland "

 

Study pinpoints UK wind hotspots

The most comprehensive report of its kind has identified the UK's best locations for households to install micro-wind turbines, say its authors.

Continue reading " Study pinpoints UK wind hotspots "

 

Consultation on new UK coal power stations

The Department of Energy and Climate Change is consulting on its clean coal framework. The consultation details how the Government proposes to reconcile curbing emissions of carbon from future coal fired power stations in the UK with the need to maintain a secure diverse energy mix.

Continue reading " Consultation on new UK coal power stations "

 

July 8, 2009

£3.5 billion investment to cut household energy use and bills

UK householder energy use and bills will be cut thanks to £3.5 billion worth of energy company investment, the government says.

Continue reading " £3.5 billion investment to cut household energy use and bills "

 

July 6, 2009

South Korea to spend billions on energy efficiency

The Government of South Korea has announced a spending programme worth over $84bn to improve energy efficiency in the country.

Continue reading " South Korea to spend billions on energy efficiency "

 

July 2, 2009

EU energy conservation website

Facilities managers, building professionals, local authorities and tenants can now access a new energy conservation advice website called "BUILD UP" that has recently been launched by the EU as a tool for sharing information on reducing energy use in buildings.

Continue reading " EU energy conservation website "

 

July 1, 2009

Tradespeople want to give trustworthy energy efficiency advice

Most tradespeople would be more willing to give advice on energy efficiency if they had access to better information themselves, according to a poll conducted for the Energy Saving Trust.

Continue reading " Tradespeople want to give trustworthy energy efficiency advice "

 

British Gas creating 2,600 jobs

British Gas is to create 2,600 new jobs by 2012 to lead the roll-out of smart meter technology.

Continue reading " British Gas creating 2,600 jobs "

 

Wind 'can revolutionise UK power'

Wind has the power to revolutionise the UK's electricity industry, according to a study published on Wednesday.

Continue reading " Wind 'can revolutionise UK power' "

 

June 30, 2009

Beleaguered oil firms 'at risk'

Thousands of jobs could be lost if the government does not do more to support oil and gas companies, the Commons energy select committee has warned.

Continue reading " Beleaguered oil firms 'at risk' "

 

June 29, 2009

Potential for 70,000 jobs through home insulation programme

The possibility of 70,000 jobs being created by a home insulation programme to cut CO2 emissions shows that the need for more energy efficient homes is "zooming up the political agenda", the Unite union said this week.

Continue reading " Potential for 70,000 jobs through home insulation programme "

 

Scientists attack energy industry

Britain's energy systems are no longer fit for purpose, according to leading members of the UK's best-known scientific academy, the Royal Society.

Continue reading " Scientists attack energy industry "

 

UK expands wind power potential

The UK government has moved to clear the path for a quarter of the nation's electricity to be powered by wind.

Continue reading " UK expands wind power potential "

 

June 26, 2009

Round-the-world solar plane debut

Swiss adventurer Bertrand Piccard has unveiled a prototype of the solar-powered plane he hopes eventually to fly around the world.

Continue reading " Round-the-world solar plane debut "

 

June 25, 2009

UK energy customers 'overcharged'

Customers are being overcharged by an average of £74 on their annual energy bills, an independent consumer watchdog has said.

Continue reading " UK energy customers 'overcharged' "

 

June 24, 2009

Small firms to be muscled out of wind power business

The government is not going to give wind power sites to small firms, according to the British Wind Energy Association.

Continue reading " Small firms to be muscled out of wind power business "

 

UK's infrastructure 'vulnerable'

Large parts of the UK's infrastructure including energy and transport networks are vulnerable to terrorism or bad weather, a report has warned.

Continue reading " UK's infrastructure 'vulnerable' "

 

June 22, 2009

Clean coal development - conditions and consultation

Two reports on the development of clean coal technology have now been published. Alongside the Government's consultation document, "A Framework for the Development of Clean Coal", AEA Group has published a report entitled "Future Value of Coal Carbon Abatement Technologies to UK Industry".

Continue reading " Clean coal development - conditions and consultation "

 

June 17, 2009

Fusion falters under soaring costs

An international plan to build a nuclear fusion reactor is being threatened by rising costs, delays and technical challenges.

Continue reading " Fusion falters under soaring costs "

 

June 16, 2009

EcoHouse exceeds all performance expectations

The benefits of thermal mass can be provided in a house built from traditional masonry and concrete construction, Hanson, one of the UK's largest suppliers of construction materials, said last week.

Continue reading " EcoHouse exceeds all performance expectations "

 

June 12, 2009

Trans-European power grid needed

European countries must invest in new electricity grids to safeguard their power supplies, scientists have warned.

Continue reading " Trans-European power grid needed "

 

Anaerobic digestion demonstration projects given green light

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has announced the five anaerobic digestion projects that have been successful in their bid to obtain Government funding to help them generate energy from organic waste, such as food.

Continue reading " Anaerobic digestion demonstration projects given green light "

 

June 9, 2009

Australia wind farm gets go-ahead

Approval has been given for Australia's biggest wind farm to be built near Broken Hill in New South Wales.

Continue reading " Australia wind farm gets go-ahead "

 

June 5, 2009

Floating wind turbine launched

The world's first floating wind turbine is to be towed out to sea this weekend.

Continue reading " Floating wind turbine launched "

 

June 2, 2009

Climate chief's pledge on energy

America's chief climate negotiator has pledged billions of dollars a year to help developing countries acquire clean energy and adapt to climate change.

Continue reading " Climate chief's pledge on energy "

 

June 1, 2009

Ranchers driving wind revolution

Texan cattle rancher Mike Baca seems an unlikely evangelist for the American green revolution.

Continue reading " Ranchers driving wind revolution "

 

May 29, 2009

The Arctic's oil reserves mapped

An estimated 30% of the world's undiscovered gas and 13% of its undiscovered oil may be in the Arctic, according to a map published on Friday.

Continue reading " The Arctic's oil reserves mapped "

 

May 21, 2009

Taiwan's solar stadium is 100% powered by the sun

Taiwan recently finished construction on an incredible solar-powered stadium that will generate 100% of its electricity from photovoltaic technology!

Continue reading " Taiwan's solar stadium is 100% powered by the sun "

 

May 20, 2009

Largest wind farm comes on stream

The final section of Europe's largest onshore wind farm is coming on stream as plans are under way to expand it.

Continue reading " Largest wind farm comes on stream "

 

May 19, 2009

Electricity to power 'smart grid'

Global electricity networks could become smart grids that can help us monitor and control our energy usage, if plans from net firm Cisco take off.

Continue reading " Electricity to power 'smart grid' "

 

May 15, 2009

Flat-screen light bulbs switch on

Researchers have demonstrated white, organic light-emitting diode (OLED) sources with the same efficiency as fluorescent light bulbs.

Continue reading " Flat-screen light bulbs switch on "

 

May 12, 2009

UK to build world's largest off-shore wind farm

The green light has been given to a €2.2bn plan to build what is claimed to be the world's largest offshore wind farm in England.

Continue reading " UK to build world's largest off-shore wind farm "

 

May 11, 2009

Smart meter plans to be outlined

The government is to unveil plans for every home in the UK to be equipped with smart meters by the end of 2020.

Continue reading " Smart meter plans to be outlined "

 

Centrica in British Energy deal

British Gas owner Centrica has said it is buying a 20% stake in nuclear firm British Energy for £2.3bn.

Continue reading " Centrica in British Energy deal "

 

May 6, 2009

Government gives coal go-ahead

The Government has signalled the go-ahead for up to four new coal-fired power stations before 2020 as they are "important for our energy mix", but will be insisting that all new plants will have to reduce their carbon emissions by new technology that can trap and store a proportion of their carbon dioxide underground.

Continue reading " Government gives coal go-ahead "

 

April 15, 2009

Dirty energy threat to green Brazil

Brazil boasts of being one of the world's "greenest" energy suppliers, but recent policy initiatives could jeopardise its desire to be a big player in future climate change discussions.

Continue reading " Dirty energy threat to green Brazil "

 

Mixed views on new nuclear build

Residents living near existing nuclear reactors only have "qualified support" for new power stations, a study shows.

Continue reading " Mixed views on new nuclear build "

 

New nuclear site options unveiled

The government has released a list of 11 sites in England and Wales where new nuclear power stations could be built.

Continue reading " New nuclear site options unveiled "

 

April 14, 2009

Windfarms 'could generate £1bn'

Northern Irish ports could benefit from offshore windfarming after more than 100 operators, developers, investors and manufacturers met with UK government officials recently to discuss the issue.

Continue reading " Windfarms 'could generate £1bn' "

 

Biomass 'worse than fossil fuels'

Biomass power could become one of the worst emitters of greenhouse gases, the Environment Agency (EA) has warned.

Continue reading " Biomass 'worse than fossil fuels' "

 

April 9, 2009

Prize for 'Sun in the box' cooker

A cheap solar cooker has won first prize in a contest for green ideas.

Continue reading " Prize for 'Sun in the box' cooker "

 

April 3, 2009

Virus battery could 'power cars'

Viruses have been used to help build batteries that may one day power cars and all types of electronic devices.

Continue reading " Virus battery could 'power cars' "

 

March 25, 2009

Direct debit energy bills slammed

A consumer group has raised fresh concerns over direct debit demands by energy companies ahead of the regulator's findings on the issue.

Continue reading " Direct debit energy bills slammed "

 

Cold fusion debate heats up again

The long-standing debate about cold fusion is receiving new impetus at the American Chemical Society's national meeting in the US this week.

Continue reading " Cold fusion debate heats up again "

 

March 24, 2009

RSPB calls for more UK wind farms

There should be a significant increase in the number of wind farms built onshore in the UK, the RSPB has said.

Continue reading " RSPB calls for more UK wind farms "

 

March 23, 2009

Clean coal plants 'lead the way'

While the government's decision over a new coal-fired power station at Kingsnorth in Kent still seems as far away as ever, on mainland Europe work is progressing towards a more advanced wave of coal fired plants.

Continue reading " Clean coal plants 'lead the way' "

 

Clean coal plants 'lead the way'

While the government's decision over a new coal-fired power station at Kingsnorth in Kent still seems as far away as ever, on mainland Europe work is progressing towards a more advanced wave of coal fired plants.

Continue reading " Clean coal plants 'lead the way' "

 

Reducing the energy use of industrial motors

The equivalent of Sweden's electricity consumption will be saved each year after the EU Member States backed new rules to reduce the electricity consumption of industrial motors.

Continue reading " Reducing the energy use of industrial motors "

 

'Cheaper energy bills' proposed

Energy companies will be banned from charging "unjustified" prices under new rules proposed by the regulator Ofgem.

Continue reading " 'Cheaper energy bills' proposed "

 

March 20, 2009

Port awaits liquid gas delivery

The first giant tanker carrying super- cooled gas from the Middle East to one of two new terminals in Pembrokeshire is expected to dock later.

Continue reading " Port awaits liquid gas delivery "

 

March 16, 2009

Efficiency plan to help fuel poor

People living in fuel poverty are to receive more help from the Welsh Assembly Government as part of plans to improved energy efficiency.

Continue reading " Efficiency plan to help fuel poor "

 

March 2, 2009

County Antrim wind power plan would benefit environment

A proposal which could see the improved integration of electricity generated by wind power into the grid system would be environmentally advantageous and boost employment, it has been claimed.

Continue reading " County Antrim wind power plan would benefit environment "

 

February 18, 2009

Turbines' impact on birds probed

The impact small wind turbines placed on homes and business could have on birds and bats is to be studied by researchers at Stirling University.

Continue reading " Turbines' impact on birds probed "

 

February 16, 2009

Scotland to get first biogas energy from waste plant

Small buyout specialist, Matrix Private Equity Partners (MPEP), has facilitated one of the first large scale biogas "energy from waste" projects in the UK, through its continued support and investment in Monsal, which it backed in 2007.

Continue reading " Scotland to get first biogas energy from waste plant "

 

February 9, 2009

Sweden aims to lift nuclear ban

The Swedish government plans to overturn a nearly 30-year-old decision to phase out nuclear power and lift a ban on building new reactors.

Continue reading " Sweden aims to lift nuclear ban "

 

Call for rural energy guarantee

More must be done to help Scottish communities benefit from energy efficiency measures, Communities Minister Stewart Maxwell has said.

Continue reading " Call for rural energy guarantee "

 

Government rejects criticism of low-energy lights

The Government has rejected a number of the criticisms aimed at the new low-energy light bulbs, namely that they give insufficient light for reading and are potentially hazardous to the environment due to their mercury content.

Continue reading " Government rejects criticism of low-energy lights "

 

January 30, 2009

UK energy saving policy 'failing'

The UK government is failing to support its own measures designed to deliver energy savings, an expert has warned.

Continue reading " UK energy saving policy 'failing' "

 

January 28, 2009

Nuclear plant 'quake ban' lifted

An outright ban on locating new nuclear power stations in areas of the UK which are susceptible to earthquakes has been lifted by the government.

Continue reading " Nuclear plant 'quake ban' lifted "

 

UK gets biofuels research centre

A centre that will act as the hub for biofuels research has been launched by Science Minister Lord Drayson.

Continue reading " UK gets biofuels research centre "

 

January 27, 2009

Obama aims for oil independence

President Barack Obama has called for the US to become energy independent, saying its reliance on foreign oil and global warming posed threats.

Continue reading " Obama aims for oil independence "

 

January 26, 2009

Carbon Trust promotes biomass heating

The Carbon Trust has published a new document, entitled Biomass Heating: A Practical Guide, which suggests that businesses and public sector organisations could benefit by switching from oil, gas and electric-powered heating to biomass-based heating systems.

Continue reading " Carbon Trust promotes biomass heating "

 

Shortlist for Severn energy plans

A shortlist of proposed schemes to harness renewable energy from the tides of the Severn estuary will be announced by the UK Government later.

Continue reading " Shortlist for Severn energy plans "

 

January 23, 2009

'Greening' of heating on the agenda

Energy experts are meeting to generate new ideas for the "greening" of heating, which produces 47% of the UK's CO2 emissions.

Continue reading " 'Greening' of heating on the agenda "

 

January 22, 2009

British Gas in 10% gas price cut

British Gas has announced it will reduce its standard tariff gas prices by 10% from 19 February.

Continue reading " British Gas in 10% gas price cut "

 

January 19, 2009

Energy efficiency system branded a shambles

The energy efficiency system involving Display Energy Certificates (DECs) has been attacked by the Association for the Conservation of Energy (ACE) after leading Government departments failed to meet the required standards.

Continue reading " Energy efficiency system branded a shambles "

 

CIBSE reveals increased awareness of Energy Performance Certificate recommendations

The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) has released the results of two informal surveys into Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs).

Continue reading " CIBSE reveals increased awareness of Energy Performance Certificate recommendations "

 

January 13, 2009

Traffic could create electricity

A possible new approach to creating electricity in Ireland has been suggested, as engineers claim to have developed a type of road that can make the power from traffic.

Continue reading " Traffic could create electricity "

 

January 12, 2009

International Energy Agency 'blocking global switch to renewables'

The international body that advises most major governments across the world on energy policy is obstructing a global switch to renewable power because of its ties to the oil, gas and nuclear sectors, a group of politicians and scientists claims today.

Continue reading " International Energy Agency 'blocking global switch to renewables' "

 

January 9, 2009

First flight of algae-fuelled jet

A US airline has completed the first test flight of a plane partly powered by biofuel derived from algae.

Continue reading " First flight of algae-fuelled jet "

 

January 8, 2009

Household bills to remain high as traders export gas due to Russian pipeline crisis

Household energy bills are likely to remain high after UK traders forced up prices by exporting gas to Europe to cover shortages caused by the Russian pipeline crisis.

Continue reading " Household bills to remain high as traders export gas due to Russian pipeline crisis "

 

Waste energy plant plans on show

A £110m waste to energy plant in Lincolnshire has come a step closer.

Continue reading " Waste energy plant plans on show "

 

December 16, 2008

Ofgem targets £500m bill savings

An energy market investigation by industry regulator Ofgem is on track to remove more than £500m in unfair bill premiums, the watchdog has said.

Continue reading " Ofgem targets £500m bill savings "

 

December 12, 2008

Government response to consultation on renewables obligation

The Government has published its response to the statutory consultation on the Renewables Obligation (RO) Order 2009.

Continue reading " Government response to consultation on renewables obligation "

 

December 9, 2008

EU wants end to old-style bulbs

A European Union report has recommended banning conventional incandescent light bulbs by 2012 to save energy and cut down on greenhouse gas emissions.

Continue reading " EU wants end to old-style bulbs "

 

November 26, 2008

Trade winds

When times are tough, governments like nothing better than to announce the creation of new jobs.

Continue reading " Trade winds "

 

November 25, 2008

Qatar launch $375 million clean-tech fund

The U.K. government, through the Carbon Trust agency, has announced the launch of a strategic partnership with Qatar aiming to help form partnerships between hydrocarbon producing countries and consumer countries and a move to reduced carbon emissions into the atmosphere.

Continue reading " Qatar launch $375 million clean-tech fund "

 

November 24, 2008

MP criticises energy firm charges

A senior MP has said he believes energy companies are boosting their cash flow by increasing customers' direct debit payments even when they are in credit.

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Spain city sets up solar cemetery

A Spanish city has found an unusual place to generate renewable energy - the local cemetery.

Continue reading " Spain city sets up solar cemetery "

 

November 17, 2008

EU seeks to expand energy grids

The European Commission has unveiled plans to diversify the EU's energy imports and reduce dependence on Russia, the main gas supplier.

Continue reading " EU seeks to expand energy grids "

 

November 12, 2008

Energy body warns on oil prices

One of the world's leading authorities on energy supply says the era of cheap oil is over and prices could soon be back up to $100 a barrel.

Continue reading " Energy body warns on oil prices "

 

UK experts give blackouts warning

Some energy experts asked by BBC News warn the UK could face an unacceptable risk of major blackouts in less than 10 years unless policy is improved.

Continue reading " UK experts give blackouts warning "

 

November 7, 2008

Call to end 'unfair' energy deals

A charity for the elderly has called on the government to tackle what it calls unfair energy pricing.

Continue reading " Call to end 'unfair' energy deals "

 

November 5, 2008

UK energy bill rises 'double' EU

Energy prices in the UK have increased twice as fast as the European Union average, according to latest figures.

Continue reading " UK energy bill rises 'double' EU "

 

November 3, 2008

Mud eruption 'caused by drilling'

The eruption of the Lusi mud volcano in Indonesia was caused by drilling for oil and gas, a meeting of 74 leading geologists has concluded.

Continue reading " Mud eruption 'caused by drilling' "

 

October 29, 2008

Renewables role for oil industry

The oil and gas industry is to be encouraged to play a bigger role in the development of marine power.

Continue reading " Renewables role for oil industry "

 

October 28, 2008

China coal 'true cost' at $250bn

China's coal industry has hidden annual costs of $250bn (£159bn) in terms of damage to health and the environment, a report by Chinese experts says.

Continue reading " China coal 'true cost' at $250bn "

 

Brown warning over energy bills

Gordon Brown has urged energy firms to reduce petrol prices and household fuel bills to reflect the sharp fall in global oil prices in recent weeks.

Continue reading " Brown warning over energy bills "

 

October 27, 2008

Seaweed farms 'could fuel future'

Pilot seaweed and algae farms are needed to assess Scotland's marine biomass potential, experts have urged.

Continue reading " Seaweed farms 'could fuel future' "

 

October 25, 2008

Carbon Trust works to slash costs of offshore wind

The Carbon Trust has joined forces with five major international energy companies in a major new initiative to reduce the cost of offshore wind by at least 10%.

Continue reading " Carbon Trust works to slash costs of offshore wind "

 

October 24, 2008

'Drastic' reforms on energy urged

"Urgent and drastic" policy and system changes are needed if the UK is to meet EU targets on renewable energy, a House of Lords committee has said.

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Coal power plants to face ban from 2015

Conventional coal-fired power stations will be banned from 2015 under proposals backed by the European Parliament this week.

Continue reading " Coal power plants to face ban from 2015 "

 

October 23, 2008

Unions says UK workers 'excluded'

A protest is taking place at a new power station in Nottinghamshire over claims UK workers are being kept out of jobs there.

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October 22, 2008

Power company in administration

An electricity business which supplies 40,000 small businesses has gone into administration, the BBC has learned.

Continue reading " Power company in administration "

 

October 21, 2008

Many energy bills 'unjustified'

Gas and electricity customers may be paying hundreds of pounds a year more than is justified, a former energy consumer chief has said.

Continue reading " Many energy bills 'unjustified' "

 

October 20, 2008

Major tidal power plan revealed

Hundreds of jobs and heat for Prince Charles' organic business in Caithness have been identified as spin offs from a proposed green energy project.

Continue reading " Major tidal power plan revealed "

 

October 18, 2008

Canal plan for powering homes

British Waterways would like to see wind turbines and small-scale hydro-electric schemes constructed on land it owns over the coming five years. The money from such schemes (estimated at more than £1 million per year), would be used for the upkeep of the waterways.

Continue reading " Canal plan for powering homes "

 

Energy bills 'often inaccurate'

Energy customers could be paying higher prices for gas and electricity used months earlier, the new watchdog Consumer Focus has warned.

Continue reading " Energy bills 'often inaccurate' "

 

October 17, 2008

Oil prices up before Opec meeting

Oil prices have risen, buoyed by Opec's decision to bring forward its emergency meeting by three weeks to next week.

Continue reading " Oil prices up before Opec meeting "

 

October 10, 2008

Hydrogen centre 'first in the UK'

A hydrogen energy research centre, described as the first of its kind in the UK, has opened near Swansea.

Continue reading " Hydrogen centre 'first in the UK' "

 

World's largest tidal energy farm set for UK

The world's largest tidal energy farm could be built in British waters, it has been announced.

Continue reading " World's largest tidal energy farm set for UK "

 

October 8, 2008

Europe follows fusion twin track

An alternative fusion project has been kicked off in Europe that would seek abundant clean energy using a colossal laser the size of a football stadium.

Continue reading " Europe follows fusion twin track "

 

October 6, 2008

Government faces fuel court case

Two charities are taking the government to court because they say not enough is being done to tackle high energy bills.

Continue reading " Government faces fuel court case "

 

Energy bills are 'unfair to some'

The energy regulator Ofgem has told companies to stop charging customers different rates if they pay by direct debit or pre-payment meters.

Continue reading " Energy bills are 'unfair to some' "

 

October 1, 2008

Mixed views on new nuclear build

Residents living near existing nuclear reactors only have "qualified support" for new power stations, a study shows.

Continue reading " Mixed views on new nuclear build "

 

Landlords must show energy rating

All landlords must now give new tenants a certificate showing the energy efficiency of their rented property.

Continue reading " Landlords must show energy rating "

 

September 30, 2008

Barack Obama and John McCain on climate change, energy and science

To find out where Republicans and Democrats stand Presidential candidates Barack Obama and John McCain were invited by Nature magazine to answer a range of questions on science, energy and climate change.

Continue reading " Barack Obama and John McCain on climate change, energy and science "

 

Carbon Trust helps UK businesses to save £1bn

The latest figures show that the Carbon Trust has helped UK businesses to save £1 billion in energy costs and to cut carbon emissions by 17 million tonnes since it became operational in 2001. Businesses working with the Carbon Trust cut their carbon footprint by approximately two million tonnes last year. This is an increase of about half a million tonnes compared to the previous year.

Continue reading " Carbon Trust helps UK businesses to save £1bn "

 

September 27, 2008

Fear of power blackouts dismissed

The National Grid says fears of winter power blackouts are unfounded, and denied that surplus capacity is low.

Continue reading " Fear of power blackouts dismissed "

 

September 24, 2008

Coal power plants 'must be clean'

Coal-fired power stations must not be built unless they can capture and store CO2, the Environment Agency has warned.

Continue reading " Coal power plants 'must be clean' "

 

UN forecasts boom in 'green jobs'

The UN says millions of new jobs will be created worldwide over the next few decades by the development of alternative energy technologies.

Continue reading " UN forecasts boom in 'green jobs' "

 

September 19, 2008

Google and GE in energy deal

The internet giant Google has teamed up with technology multinational General Electric to develop a "smart" electric power grid and promote clean energy.

Continue reading " Google and GE in energy deal "

 

September 17, 2008

400 jobs to go at Coventry energy plant

Jobs could be in jeopardy as utilities giant E.ON UK announced 400 cuts in its Energy Services operations.

Continue reading " 400 jobs to go at Coventry energy plant "

 

Britain 'faces power cuts threat'

The UK will experience prolonged power cuts in about five years unless urgent action is taken now, a report warns.

Continue reading " Britain 'faces power cuts threat' "

 

September 15, 2008

New battle over Arctic oil plans

The grey waters of the Arctic Ocean are the scene for a new battle over plans for a huge expansion in the drilling of oil and gas far beyond the Alaskan shore.

Continue reading " New battle over Arctic oil plans "

 

Guidance for landlords on energy performance certificates

The Department for Communities and Local Government has produced a booklet containing advice for landlords on the new energy performance certificates (EPCs), which will be required if renting to a new tenant from 1 October 2008. The publication, A Landlord's Guide to Energy Performance Certificates, is free and is only available online.

Continue reading " Guidance for landlords on energy performance certificates "

 

New bug ferments green fuel cheaply

A study undertaken by a scientist at Dartmouth College, in New Hampshire, has revealed that genetically-engineered bacteria could be used to reduce the cost of manufacturing cellulose-based ethanol.

Continue reading " New bug ferments green fuel cheaply "

 

September 14, 2008

EU in crop biofuel goal rethink

European Union lawmakers have voted to set a limit on targets to increase the use of road transport biofuels.

Continue reading " EU in crop biofuel goal rethink "

 

September 11, 2008

Fusion power seeks super steels

Scientists say an understanding of how the Twin Towers collapsed will help them develop the materials needed to build fusion reactors.

Continue reading " Fusion power seeks super steels "

 

September 8, 2008

One in four 'facing fuel poverty'

Almost a quarter of the population will be pushed into fuel poverty by the end of next year, a report has suggested.

Continue reading " One in four 'facing fuel poverty' "

 

September 5, 2008

Energy companies 'hike dividends'

The "big six" energy suppliers increased their shareholder dividend payouts by 19% last year, according to new research.

Continue reading " Energy companies 'hike dividends' "

 

How food waste can power your home

The government is considering building a host of new "biowaste" plants in towns and cities across England which turn food waste into energy.

Continue reading " How food waste can power your home "

 

Government warned over fuel costs

The government is being warned it could face public hostility over the rising cost of fuel bills.

Continue reading " Government warned over fuel costs "

 

September 4, 2008

Germany leads 'clean coal' pilot

Beneath the gargantuan grey boiler towers of Schwarze Pumpe power station which pierce the skies of northern Germany, a Lilliputian puzzle of metal boxes and shining canisters is about to mark a moment of industrial history.

Continue reading " Germany leads 'clean coal' pilot "

 

August 29, 2008

Asia's biggest solar thermal energy plant to be set up at Nagpur

Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Vilas Muttemwar today said Asia's biggest
solar thermal energy plant of 10 MW capacity would be set up at Nagpur, where a SEZ was also being established in which equipment and appliances related to wind, solar and biogas energy would be manufactured.

Continue reading " Asia's biggest solar thermal energy plant to be set up at Nagpur "

 

China to Subsidize Wind Turbines

The Chinese government said Friday it will subsidize wind power equipment makers as the country continues its drive to generate 15 percent of its energy needs from renewable sources by 2020.

Continue reading " China to Subsidize Wind Turbines "

 

August 26, 2008

UK 'should end biofuel subsidies'

The government should stop funding biofuels and use the money to halt the destruction of rainforests and peatland instead, a think tank has said.

Continue reading " UK 'should end biofuel subsidies' "

 

MPs call for energy windfall tax

More than 80 Labour MPs have signed a petition calling for a one-off windfall tax to be imposed on energy firms who have recently recorded huge profits.

Continue reading " MPs call for energy windfall tax "

 

August 21, 2008

Energy firm E.On to raise prices

Energy firm E.On is to raise gas prices by 26% and electricity prices by 16% on 22 August.

Continue reading " Energy firm E.On to raise prices "

 

Lib Dems urge energy independence

The UK could be "energy independent" by 2050 without building any new coal or nuclear power stations, the Liberal Democrats have said.

Continue reading " Lib Dems urge energy independence "

 

August 19, 2008

Coal's toxic legacy to the Arctic

Coal burning in western Europe and North America has been a prime source of heavy metal pollution in the Arctic.

Continue reading " Coal's toxic legacy to the Arctic "

 

August 18, 2008

Ministers launch electricity plan

The Scottish government is to bulk-buy electricity for the whole public sector with a view to saving taxpayers' money in a climate of soaring energy bills.

Continue reading " Ministers launch electricity plan "

 

August 15, 2008

German boffins use "anti noise" to silence wind turbines

The dull hum that emanates from many wind turbines could soon become a thing of the past thanks to a group of German researchers who claim to have developed a new sound muffling technology capable of cutting noise levels by an estimated 50 per cent.

Continue reading " German boffins use "anti noise" to silence wind turbines "

 

£65m plan will turn distillery greener

Plans for a pioneering £65 million bio-energy plant at Scotland's largest distillery, Cameronbridge, at Windygates in Fife, have been announced by drinks giant Diageo.

Continue reading " £65m plan will turn distillery greener "

 

Greenpeace virtual tool shows how to save energy in your city

Greenpeace UK has created a virtual tool that can be used to find out how cities can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and save energy: 'EfficienCity'.

Continue reading " Greenpeace virtual tool shows how to save energy in your city "

 

High street banks face consumer boycott over investment in coal projects

High street banks, including Royal Bank of Scotland, HSBC and Barclays, face a consumer boycott if they continue to channel billions of pounds of new investment into coal projects, campaigning groups warned last night.

Continue reading " High street banks face consumer boycott over investment in coal projects "

 

Renewables case pushed

The UK will have "little or no need" for large-scale investment in conventional power plants if it meets renewable energy targets, a report has claimed.

Continue reading " Renewables case pushed "

 

August 13, 2008

British Energy sees profits fall

British Energy has reported a 66% drop in quarterly profits, hit by falls in production from the group's ageing nuclear power stations.

Continue reading " British Energy sees profits fall "

 

August 12, 2008

Ministers consider fuel bill help

The government has played down reports it may give families £150 towards fuel bills, after an official was overheard discussing options on a train.

Continue reading " Ministers consider fuel bill help "

 

August 11, 2008

Firms 'need fairer energy deals'

UK businesses need to be offered help in dealing with energy companies, the British Chamber of Commerce says.

Continue reading " Firms 'need fairer energy deals' "

 

August 7, 2008

Wind turbine grant testing urged

Grants for homeowners who want to install small wind turbines should assess whether the structure saves carbon emissions, a report has said.

Continue reading " Wind turbine grant testing urged "

 

August 5, 2008

Oil price falls further to $118

Oil prices touched three-month lows of $118 a barrel on Tuesday as traders reacted to news of rising supplies.

Continue reading " Oil price falls further to $118 "

 

August 4, 2008

China's 'rapid renewables surge'

China's rapid investment in low carbon technologies has catapulted the nation up the global renewable energy rankings, a report shows.

Continue reading " China's 'rapid renewables surge' "

 

August 1, 2008

Digesting the problem

Britain has fallen well behind much of Europe when it comes to utilising manure from farms and
waste from abattoirs and food processors to create gas and electricity. But that could soon
change.

Continue reading " Digesting the problem "

 

British Energy rejects takeover

The board of British Energy has rejected a deal which would have meant the sale of eight of the UK's nuclear power stations to a French state-owned energy firm.

Continue reading " British Energy rejects takeover "

 

July 31, 2008

New turbine to harness wave power

A turbine designed to be the forerunner of the UK's first commercial wave power station has been officially switched on in Argyll and Bute.

Continue reading " New turbine to harness wave power "

 

Centrica hit by high energy costs

British Gas owner Centrica has seen operating profits decline 20% in the first six months of the year, following increases in wholesale gas prices.

Continue reading " Centrica hit by high energy costs "

 

July 29, 2008

Solar power call for more schools

Solar panels being installed in a secondary school in East Sussex will generate enough power for 33,000 hours of classroom computer use.

Continue reading " Solar power call for more schools "

 

Obama's biofuels policy tension

US presidential hopeful Barack Obama is coming under increasing pressure to change his policies on biofuels.

Continue reading " Obama's biofuels policy tension "

 

July 27, 2008

MPs warn of energy price impact

Rises in gas and electricity bills in the near future will have serious consequences for millions of households, an MPs' committee has said.

Continue reading " MPs warn of energy price impact "

 

July 25, 2008

EDF customers face higher bills

EDF Energy has announced it is putting up gas prices by 22% and electricity prices by 17% for domestic customers.

Continue reading " EDF customers face higher bills "

 

July 24, 2008

Renewables mandate 'undermined'

The UK's business department, BERR, has been accused of trying to sabotage Europe's rules on renewable energy.

Continue reading " Renewables mandate 'undermined' "

 

July 23, 2008

Oil prices fall to six-week low

Oil prices have fallen to a six-week low as US energy demand fell and a hurricane in the Gulf of Mexico appeared to be missing oil facilities.

Continue reading " Oil prices fall to six-week low "

 

July 22, 2008

Supermarkets reduce petrol prices

Retailers Asda, Morrisons and Sainsbury's have all said they will lower the price of petrol, prompted by falling oil prices.

Continue reading " Supermarkets reduce petrol prices "

 

Clean deadline call on coal power

The government should set a deadline for coal-fired power stations to adopt "clean" technologies or close, according to a parliamentary committee.

Continue reading " Clean deadline call on coal power "

 

July 21, 2008

Giant wind farm project rescued

German power firm E.On and Danish utility Dong have bought Shell's stake in the London Array wind farm, which is set to be one of the world's largest.

Continue reading " Giant wind farm project rescued "

 

Rubbish idea that could make driving cheaper

A British company may have the answer to soaring petrol prices after it claimed yesterday to have become the first to have found a way to make fuel from rubbish

Continue reading " Rubbish idea that could make driving cheaper "

 

Green light for massive wind farm

Plans to build Europe's largest onshore wind farm in South Lanarkshire have been approved by Scottish ministers.

Continue reading " Green light for massive wind farm "

 

July 18, 2008

Biogas backed by government

Fifty senior industry and NGO executives met Defra ministers today to discuss multi-million pound plans to make greater use of anaerobic digestion - the technology which produces energy from organic material like food waste and manure.

Continue reading " Biogas backed by government "

 

Gas bills 'to top £1,000 a year'

Energy bills could rise by more than 60% within the next few years, the UK's biggest domestic energy supplier warns.

Continue reading " Gas bills 'to top £1,000 a year' "

 

July 16, 2008

Severn tidal 'fence' idea floated

Plans for an alternative tidal energy project to a £15bn Severn barrage have been put forward by opponents.

Continue reading " Severn tidal 'fence' idea floated "

 

Fuel duty increase is postponed

The planned 2p increase in fuel duty this October is to be postponed

Continue reading " Fuel duty increase is postponed "

 

July 15, 2008

Bush lifts offshore drilling ban

President George W Bush has lifted an executive ban on drilling for oil in most US coastal waters, and has urged lawmakers to follow suit.

Continue reading " Bush lifts offshore drilling ban "

 

July 11, 2008

Solar dyes give a guiding light

A new way capturing the energy from the Sun could increase the power generated by solar panels tenfold, a team of American scientists has shown.

Continue reading " Solar dyes give a guiding light "

 

July 10, 2008

French firm 'quits Iran gas deal'

The head of French energy giant Total has said it will not invest in Iran because it is too politically risky.

Continue reading " French firm 'quits Iran gas deal' "

 

Nuclear clean-up cost 'to rise'

The cost of decommissioning nuclear power sites could rise "significantly" above the £73bn already estimated, an MPs' committee has said.

Continue reading " Nuclear clean-up cost 'to rise' "

 

July 8, 2008

UK to slow expansion of biofuels

The UK is to slow its adoption of biofuels amid fears they raise food prices and harm the environment, the transport secretary has said.

Continue reading " UK to slow expansion of biofuels "

 

July 4, 2008

UK government's renewable plans

The government has announced that a national policy statement for planners on renewable
energy is due out this autumn.

Continue reading " UK government's renewable plans "

 

'Green' energy spending on rise

Global investment in "green" energy surged ahead in 2007 and has continued to grow this year despite turmoil in financial markets, a report says.

Continue reading " 'Green' energy spending on rise "

 

July 3, 2008

Anger at Kenya biofuel approval

Kenyan environmentalists have told the BBC that the government should revoke a decision to allow a controversial biofuels project to go ahead.

Continue reading " Anger at Kenya biofuel approval "

 

Climate concerns halt coal plant

The US state of Georgia has blocked construction of a new coal-fired power station because of concerns over its carbon dioxide emissions.

Continue reading " Climate concerns halt coal plant "

 

June 27, 2008

UK plans big wind power expansion

Thousands of new wind turbines could be built across the UK over the coming decade as part of a £100bn plan to boost renewable energy.

Continue reading " UK plans big wind power expansion "

 

June 26, 2008

Green energy plans to be outlined

Proposals on renewable energy aimed at meeting EU climate change targets and securing the UK's future supply are to be unveiled by the government later.

Continue reading " Green energy plans to be outlined "

 

June 25, 2008

Green energy push planned for UK

As many as a quarter of British homes could be fitted with solar heating panels under new government plans for a "green revolution".

Continue reading " Green energy push planned for UK "

 

Biofuel use 'increasing poverty'

The replacement of traditional fuels with biofuels has dragged more than 30 million people worldwide into poverty, an aid agency report says.

Continue reading " Biofuel use 'increasing poverty' "

 

Sharp solar panels to be used in two Japanese mega plants

Sharp has certainly been an integral part of these solar installations before, but the latest endeavor by the city of Sakai and the Kansai Electric Power Company isn't anything to sneeze at.

Continue reading " Sharp solar panels to be used in two Japanese mega plants "

 

June 13, 2008

Ministers plot UK nuclear future

The government is inviting communities in the UK to volunteer to host radioactive waste from the country's half-century of nuclear power.

Continue reading " Ministers plot UK nuclear future "

 

June 12, 2008

Concern over tidal barrage cost

The power generated by the proposed Severn Barrage could be produced more cheaply using other green technologies, a report says.

Continue reading " Concern over tidal barrage cost "

 

June 6, 2008

Fuel costs 'favour smaller cars'

High fuel prices and the threat of extra taxes on larger cars may be making smaller cars more popular, new car registration figures suggest.

Continue reading " Fuel costs 'favour smaller cars' "

 

Green energy 'revolution' needed

A leading energy body is calling for a $45 trillion (£23 trillion) green revolution to tackle global warming.

Continue reading " Green energy 'revolution' needed "

 

May 14, 2008

Sales plump at the pumps

It looks as if soaring fuel prices are finally taking their toll on motorists' wallets. And to prove it, sales of petrol and diesel have dropped dramatically.

Continue reading " Sales plump at the pumps "

 

Biofuel bacteria wrecks engines

Biofuel is wreaking havoc with car engines. Due to Government rules, all diesel sold in the UK must be blended with the eco-friendly fuel.

Continue reading " Biofuel bacteria wrecks engines "

 

May 12, 2008

British Gas owner warns on profit

Centrica, the owner of British Gas, has warned that profits will be squeezed by soaring gas and power prices and hinted that fuel bills could rise again.

Continue reading " British Gas owner warns on profit "

 

May 9, 2008

Centrica warns on wind farm costs

Centrica, one of the UK's biggest energy generators, has warned that the prospect of making money from wind farms is looking "marginal".

Continue reading " Centrica warns on wind farm costs "

 

Malcolm Wicks : Renewable Energy - its role in the UK

The Energy Minister, Malcolm Wicks MP, discusses the role of renewable energy in the overall energy mix strategy of the Government and highlights the economic opportunities that renewable energy brings to the UK. He confirms renewable energy as a key priority for the UK.

Continue reading " Malcolm Wicks : Renewable Energy - its role in the UK "

 

May 2, 2008

Nuclear's CO2 cost 'will climb'

The case for nuclear power as a low carbon energy source to replace fossil fuels has been challenged in a new report by Australian academics.

Continue reading " Nuclear's CO2 cost 'will climb' "

 

April 22, 2008

Leaders warn on biofuels and food

Two Latin American leaders have issued warnings about the effects of biofuel production on food supplies.

Continue reading " Leaders warn on biofuels and food "

 

April 21, 2008

Massive wind energy plan refused

Plans to construct one of Europe's largest onshore wind farms has been refused by the Scottish Government.

Continue reading " Massive wind energy plan refused "

 

April 17, 2008

Brazil president defends biofuels

Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has rejected allegations that biofuels are responsible for the recent rise in global food prices.

Continue reading " Brazil president defends biofuels "

 

April 16, 2008

Wind energy company in Euro call

A major wind farm developer has asked European Commissioners to acknowledge support for its 181-turbine proposal for Barvas Moor on Lewis.

Continue reading " Wind energy company in Euro call "

 

April 15, 2008

Petrol must now include biofuels

All petrol and diesel which is sold at UK pumps now has to include at least 2.5% biofuels.

Continue reading " Petrol must now include biofuels "

 

April 11, 2008

Extra £225m to beat fuel poverty

Up to 100,000 households could be helped with their fuel bills under a deal agreed between the UK's big six energy companies and the government.

Continue reading " Extra £225m to beat fuel poverty "

 

April 8, 2008

EU 'windfall for power companies'

Europe's big power companies could make profits of up to 71bn euros (£56bn) from the EU's scheme to curb carbon emissions, according to a report.

Continue reading " EU 'windfall for power companies' "

 

April 2, 2008

Energy customers switch suppliers

More than five million domestic energy customers looking for cheaper deals switched suppliers in 2007, according to regulator Ofgem.

Continue reading " Energy customers switch suppliers "

 

March 26, 2008

Call to expand UK's nuclear power

Britain's nuclear industry should be expanded to provide more energy and more jobs, Business Secretary John Hutton is to say in a speech later.

Continue reading " Call to expand UK's nuclear power "

 

March 21, 2008

Call for delay to biofuels policy

The UK's chief environment scientist has called for a delay to a policy demanding inclusion of biofuels into fuel at pumps across the UK.

Continue reading " Call for delay to biofuels policy "

 

March 19, 2008

Green power station to be opened

First Minister Alex Salmond is to officially open a £90m biomass power station near Lockerbie.

Continue reading " Green power station to be opened "

 

March 10, 2008

Coal 'key to UK's energy supply'

Coal-fired power stations will remain a "key source" of British energy, Cabinet minister John Hutton has said.

Continue reading " Coal 'key to UK's energy supply' "

 

How Darling could ease fuel bills

Four-and-a-half million households in the UK struggle to pay their gas and electricity bills.

Continue reading " How Darling could ease fuel bills "

 

March 6, 2008

UK 'to seek more nuclear power'

Britain's reliance on nuclear energy should increase over the next two decades, business secretary John Hutton has told The Financial Times.

Continue reading " UK 'to seek more nuclear power' "

 

February 29, 2008

No impact from Energy Saving Day

The UK's first Energy Saving Day has ended with no noticeable reduction in the country's electricity usage.

Continue reading " No impact from Energy Saving Day "

 

February 28, 2008

Moral appeal for UK energy saving

The battle against climate change has been described by a church leader as a "moral issue", at the launch of a strategy to reduce UK electricity use.

Continue reading " Moral appeal for UK energy saving "

 

February 25, 2008

Ofgem fines National Grid £41.6m

National Grid has been fined £41.6m by energy regulator Ofgem for restricting the development of competition in the domestic gas meter market.

Continue reading " Ofgem fines National Grid £41.6m "

 

February 24, 2008

Biofuels 'need strict standards'

Biofuels should only be produced if they meet strict environmental standards, an international group of lawmakers have concluded.

Continue reading " Biofuels 'need strict standards' "

 

February 22, 2008

Ofgem begins energy market probe

The energy regulator, Ofgem, has launched an investigation into the electricity and gas markets for households and small businesses.

Continue reading " Ofgem begins energy market probe "

 

February 21, 2008

British Gas profits jump to £571m

Energy supplier British Gas has reported annual profits of £571m at its residential arm, up from £95m in 2006.

Continue reading " British Gas profits jump to £571m "

 

February 5, 2008

Drive to slash Warwickshire County Council energy bills

A massive drive to cut energy bills for schools and offices across Warwickshire could save taxpayers hundreds of thousands of pounds a year.

Continue reading " Drive to slash Warwickshire County Council energy bills "

 

January 30, 2008

Nuclear clean-up costs 'rising'

The cost of decommissioning ageing nuclear power sites has risen "rapidly" in the past few years by £12bn to £73bn, according to an official report.

Continue reading " Nuclear clean-up costs 'rising' "

 

January 28, 2008

Britain 'facing energy shortfall'

Britain is likely to face a shortfall in electricity generation within five to seven years, a report concludes.

Continue reading " Britain 'facing energy shortfall' "

 

January 24, 2008

Gone with the wind on 'kite ship'

There is something rather magical about being up on deck of a giant cargo ship as it pushes its way out to sea.

Continue reading " Gone with the wind on 'kite ship' "

 

January 22, 2008

Severn barrage details unveiled

Details of a feasibility study into the Severn Barrage, a tidal power plan that could provide about 5% of UK electricity, have been announced.

Continue reading " Severn barrage details unveiled "

 

January 21, 2008

Call to abandon biofuels targets

The EU should abandon its biofuels targets because they are damaging the environment, a committee of MPs says.

Continue reading " Call to abandon biofuels targets "

 

January 18, 2008

UK set for 15% renewables target

The European Union is expected to tell the UK that 15% of energy needs must be met from renewable sources by 2020.

Continue reading " UK set for 15% renewables target "

 

January 17, 2008

Solar panels and wind turbines in NI schools

More than £1.3 million is to be invested in renewable energy generation at a total of 35 rural schools in Northern Ireland.

Continue reading " Solar panels and wind turbines in NI schools "

 

January 15, 2008

Biofuels 'are not a magic bullet'

Biofuels may play a role in curbing climate change, says Britain's Royal Society, but may create environmental problems unless implemented with care.

Continue reading " Biofuels 'are not a magic bullet' "

 

January 14, 2008

Campaigners strongly opposed to nuclear option

Environment campaign groups have responded furiously to the Government's plans for a new generation of nuclear power stations, while opposition groups are divided on the issue.

Continue reading " Campaigners strongly opposed to nuclear option "

 

EU rethinks biofuels guidelines

Europe's environment chief has admitted that the EU did not foresee the problems raised by its policy to get 10% of Europe's road fuels from plants.

Continue reading " EU rethinks biofuels guidelines "

 

Regulator rules out energy probe

Energy regulator Ofgem has said it has no concerns about anti-competitive behaviour in the UK, despite consumers bracing themselves for rising bills.

Continue reading " Regulator rules out energy probe "

 

January 10, 2008

Nuclear plants set for go-ahead

A new generation of nuclear power stations is expected to get the formal go-ahead from the government later.

Continue reading " Nuclear plants set for go-ahead "

 

Nuclear a major decision - Brown

The government faces a "major decision" on whether to approve a new generation of nuclear power stations, Prime Minister Gordon Brown has told MPs.

Continue reading " Nuclear a major decision - Brown "

 

January 9, 2008

Cabinet backs nuclear power plan

The Cabinet has agreed in principle to approve a new generation of nuclear power stations, it has emerged.

Continue reading " Cabinet backs nuclear power plan "

 

January 7, 2008

Darling seeks energy cost talks

Chancellor Alistair Darling has asked to meet with energy regulator Ofgem to discuss last week's gas and electricity price rises by Npower.

Continue reading " Darling seeks energy cost talks "

 

January 5, 2008

Brown hints at nuclear power plan

Prime Minister Gordon Brown has hinted that the government may approve a new generation of nuclear power plants.

Continue reading " Brown hints at nuclear power plan "

 

January 4, 2008

Second nuclear review criticised

A second public consultation into whether new nuclear stations should be built has "failed", a report suggests.

Continue reading " Second nuclear review criticised "

 

January 3, 2008

Alaska oil exploration to begin

The US government says it will offer exploration rights for oil and gas in a north-western region of Alaska.

Continue reading " Alaska oil exploration to begin "

 

December 10, 2007

Wind turbine expansion plans due

All UK homes could be powered by offshore wind farms by 2020 as part of the fight against climate change, under plans being unveiled by John Hutton.

Continue reading " Wind turbine expansion plans due "

 

December 6, 2007

Tory plans for home power sources

Homeowners would be encouraged to generate their own energy under plans to be announced by the Conservatives.

Continue reading " Tory plans for home power sources "

 

December 5, 2007

Energy companies 'exploit poor'

Energy companies have been accused by an industry watchdog of exploiting some of the poorest people in society.

Continue reading " Energy companies 'exploit poor' "

 

November 27, 2007

Google's cheaper-than-coal target

Search giant Google is investing hundreds of millions of dollars in renewable energy technologies.

Continue reading " Google's cheaper-than-coal target "

 

November 22, 2007

World's largest biomass plant approved

Britain is set to build the world's largest biomass plant after the Government gave the green light to a scheme in south Wales.

Continue reading " World's largest biomass plant approved "

 

November 8, 2007

Energy needs 'to grow inexorably'

The global demand for energy is set to grow inexorably through to 2030 if governments do not change their policies, warns a top energy official.

Continue reading " Energy needs 'to grow inexorably' "

 

November 6, 2007

Bills pave way for nuclear power

Energy, planning and climate change bills in the Queen's Speech pave the way for new UK nuclear power stations.

Continue reading " Bills pave way for nuclear power "

 

New agency will oversee biofuel regulations

A new agency has been created to oversee the introduction of regulations requiring 5% of all fuel sold in the UK by 2010 to come from biofuels.

Continue reading " New agency will oversee biofuel regulations "

 

November 2, 2007

Blocked development given go ahead after green tweak

Ken Livingstone has withdrawn his opposition to an industrial development after the developers agreed to make the scheme more energy efficient.

Continue reading " Blocked development given go ahead after green tweak "

 

November 1, 2007

UK energy savings 'miscalculated'

Energy savings in UK households could be up to 30% lower than previously thought, jeopardising efforts to cut the nation's carbon dioxide emissions.

Continue reading " UK energy savings 'miscalculated' "

 

Biofuel rush harmful, Oxfam warns

The rush for biofuels could harm the world's poorest people, Oxfam has said.

Continue reading " Biofuel rush harmful, Oxfam warns "

 

UK's first gasification plant will reduce island's landfill

Work has begun on a new £8m plant to convert waste into electricity on the Isle of Wight.

Continue reading " UK's first gasification plant will reduce island's landfill "

 

October 27, 2007

Biofuels 'crime against humanity'

A United Nations expert has condemned the growing use of crops to produce biofuels as a replacement for petrol as a crime against humanity.

Continue reading " Biofuels 'crime against humanity' "

 

October 23, 2007

Seven of UK's 16 reactors closed

Nearly half of Britain's nuclear power reactors have been out of action due to breakdowns and maintenance.

Continue reading " Seven of UK's 16 reactors closed "

 

October 18, 2007

Tapping into NI's steaming asset

A source of geothermal energy found in County Antrim could have the potential to provide heat and electricity for Northern Ireland's towns and cities.

Continue reading " Tapping into NI's steaming asset "

 

October 17, 2007

How to run your car on chip oil

As oil price and duty rises threaten to push diesel prices beyond the £1-a-litre mark, more of us are finding inventive ways to save money on our transport costs.

Continue reading " How to run your car on chip oil "

 

UK looks to make Antarctica claim

Britain is looking to claim sovereignty over a large area of the remote seabed off Antarctica.

Continue reading " UK looks to make Antarctica claim "

 

October 16, 2007

Lula promotes biofuels in Africa

Brazilian President Luiz Ignacio Lula da Silva has urged African countries to take up the use of biofuels as a way of improving their economic independence.

Continue reading " Lula promotes biofuels in Africa "

 

October 12, 2007

China coal output to exceed 2.5b tons in 2007

China is likely to produce over 2.5 billion tons of coal in 2007, up five percent from last year, said Wang Xianzheng, deputy director of the State Administration of Work Safety.

Continue reading " China coal output to exceed 2.5b tons in 2007 "

 

October 11, 2007

Huge coal contact for Daw Mill

Daw Mill, the UK's biggest colliery, has won a new five-year supply contract with power generator E.ON.

Continue reading " Huge coal contact for Daw Mill "

 

October 9, 2007

Australia in giant wind farm plan

Plans to build Australia's largest wind farm have been announced by the German company Conergy.

Continue reading " Australia in giant wind farm plan "

 

Protesters remain at power plant

Five Greenpeace campaigners have spent the night on top of a chimney at a Kent power station to protest against plans for a new coal-fired plant.

Continue reading " Protesters remain at power plant "

 

October 8, 2007

Protesters raid coal power plant

Greenpeace campaigners have staged a dawn protest at a power plant which could be the site of Britain's first new coal-fired station for 20 years.

Continue reading " Protesters raid coal power plant "

 

October 5, 2007

Tories promise energy revolution

The Conservatives have promised to start an energy revolution if they win the next General Election.

Continue reading " Tories promise energy revolution "

 

October 2, 2007

Energy watchdog calls for better service for small firms

Independent watchdog, energywatch, has called for utility suppliers to improve their service to small businesses, after its survey showed that over half of SMEs had received inaccurate bills.

Continue reading " Energy watchdog calls for better service for small firms "

 

October 1, 2007

Biofuel trial flight set for 747

Air New Zealand says it plans to mount the first test flight of a commercial airliner partially powered by biofuel.

Continue reading " Biofuel trial flight set for 747 "

 

Advisers endorse tidal power plan

An influential government advisory body has endorsed proposals for a tidal barrage across the Severn estuary.

Continue reading " Advisers endorse tidal power plan "

 

Tax rise fuels petrol price fears

Petrol prices could surge to near record highs following a 2p rise in fuel duty.

Continue reading " Tax rise fuels petrol price fears "

 

September 28, 2007

Orkney tidal power plans unveiled

One of the world's largest tidal energy projects has been unveiled off Orkney in a bid to help make Scotland "the energy powerhouse of Europe".

Continue reading " Orkney tidal power plans unveiled "

 

Switch off for traditional bulbs

Plans to phase out the traditional lightbulb by 2011 have been announced by Environment Secretary Hilary Benn.

Continue reading " Switch off for traditional bulbs "

 

September 27, 2007

Cost still biggest fuel cell hurdle

Manufacturers and governments have to make fuel cell technology more affordable, according to environment and industry experts.

Continue reading " Cost still biggest fuel cell hurdle "

 

September 26, 2007

New study for Severn energy plan

The government has announced a fresh feasibility study into the Severn Barrage, a tidal power plan that could provide about 5% of UK electricity.

Continue reading " New study for Severn energy plan "

 

September 24, 2007

Engineer pioneers cheap solar energy

An engineer in the US has developed solar panels that can produce electricity for roughly the same cost as using nuclear energy or fossil fuels.

Continue reading " Engineer pioneers cheap solar energy "

 

Clean energy on London curriculum

A scheme set up to enthuse school children about clean energy technologies - and perhaps inspire the engineers of the future - has been launched in the capital.

Continue reading " Clean energy on London curriculum "

 

September 18, 2007

£6m power station will help planet

A £6 million 'green' power station planned for Coventry could help fight climate change.

Continue reading " £6m power station will help planet "

 

'World first' wave farm gets green light

The Government has given planning approval for what is being billed as the world's first large-scale wave farm off the coast of Cornwall.

Continue reading " 'World first' wave farm gets green light "

 

September 17, 2007

Wave hub gets planning go-ahead

The government has given planning approval for the world's first large-scale wave project off the coast of north Cornwall.

Continue reading " Wave hub gets planning go-ahead "

 

September 14, 2007

Energy efficiency kits for remote Canadian First Nation communities

Thousands of energy conservation kits (ECKs) are being rolled out to hard-to-reach First Nation Communities around the Canadian province of Ontario.

Continue reading " Energy efficiency kits for remote Canadian First Nation communities "

 

September 13, 2007

Wind Farms to get national code in Australia

In a move to further establish a commitment to developing wind farms, the Australian government appointed a working group whose aim it will be to establish a national code.

Continue reading " Wind Farms to get national code in Australia "

 

September 10, 2007

Renewable energy creation could alter Severn estuary ecology

Plans to use the Severn Estuary to generate tidal power electricity could cause a conflict between protecting habitat and tackling global warming.

Continue reading " Renewable energy creation could alter Severn estuary ecology "

 

Solar plane flies into the night

A lightweight solar-powered plane has smashed the official world record for the longest-duration unmanned flight.

Continue reading " Solar plane flies into the night "

 

September 7, 2007

Greens want 'fair' energy payouts

Householders who generate electricity via solar panels should be paid more by power firms, the Green Party has said.

Continue reading " Greens want 'fair' energy payouts "

 

Groups pull out of nuclear debate

Green groups have pulled out of the debate over whether the UK should build new nuclear power stations.

Continue reading " Groups pull out of nuclear debate "

 

September 5, 2007

Warning over new energy contracts

A gas and electricity supplier has been accused of trying to lock-in customers to a one year deal.

Continue reading " Warning over new energy contracts "

 

UK Coal boosts its profitability

UK Coal has more than doubled its half-year profits, thanks to the increasing profitability of its mines.

Continue reading " UK Coal boosts its profitability "

 

September 4, 2007

London to tackle energy efficiency in public buildings

The Greater London Authority is planning to upgrade energy efficiency in up to 100 of its buildings - and is inviting contractors to bid for the job.

Continue reading " London to tackle energy efficiency in public buildings "

 

September 3, 2007

French utility firms agree merger

French utility groups Suez and Gaz de France (GDF) have agreed to merge to create one of the world's largest energy firms, worth 70bn euros (£47bn).

Continue reading " French utility firms agree merger "

 

August 30, 2007

EU will retain light bulb tariff

The European Commission has decided to retain import tariffs on Chinese-made energy-efficient light bulbs for up to another 12 months.

Continue reading " EU will retain light bulb tariff "

 

Public backs nuclear energy to help power Britain's future

An overwhelming majority of people believe that nuclear power will have a role to play in meeting Britain's future energy needs, despite continued opposition from environmental campaigners.

Continue reading " Public backs nuclear energy to help power Britain's future "

 

August 28, 2007

Shoppers 'face meat price rises'

Meat prices are set to increase as farmers pass on the burden of surging costs, a report has suggested.

Continue reading " Shoppers 'face meat price rises' "

 

August 24, 2007

Panel to boost energy efficiency in Scottish homes

An expert panel has been set up to recommend measures to make houses and buildings in Scotland more energy efficient, it was announced this week.

Continue reading " Panel to boost energy efficiency in Scottish homes "

 

Biofuel surge - bane or boon?

The rapid growth of global biofuels production may have 'unintended impacts,' a new report suggests.

Continue reading " Biofuel surge - bane or boon? "

 

August 21, 2007

£400m power station bid approved

Plans for a £400m power station in Newport have been given the go-ahead by the UK government.

Continue reading " £400m power station bid approved "

 

August 20, 2007

EU biofuel policy is a 'mistake'

The EU target of ensuring 10% of petrol and diesel comes from renewable sources by 2020 is not an effective way to curb carbon emissions, researchers say.

Continue reading " EU biofuel policy is a 'mistake' "

 

August 15, 2007

Paper battery offers future power

Flexible paper batteries could meet the energy demands of the next generation of gadgets, says a team of researchers.

Continue reading " Paper battery offers future power "

 

August 6, 2007

American Researchers develop DIY solar panels

It may be as easy as click-and-print when you need a spot of solar energy, according to American researchers who say they've developed an inexpensive solar cell that can be painted or printed on flexible plastic sheets.

Continue reading " American Researchers develop DIY solar panels "

 

'Over 15,000MW' of wind power installed in 2006

Wind turbines erected around the world last year will produce as much energy as 23 coal-fired power stations, according to analysis by an American think tank.

Continue reading " 'Over 15,000MW' of wind power installed in 2006 "

 

3,000 black cabs switch to biofuel blend

London's biggest black cab company is fuelling its fleet on a blend of diesel and biofuels.

Continue reading " 3,000 black cabs switch to biofuel blend "

 

US House passes clean energy bill

The US House of Representatives has passed a radical new energy bill, which aims to expand the use of renewable fuels and cut tax breaks to oil firms.

Continue reading " US House passes clean energy bill "

 

August 2, 2007

Sheffield excited about bid for hi-tech energy institute

Sheffield University is upbeat about its bid to bring a multimillion pound government energy and environmental research institute to the area.

Continue reading " Sheffield excited about bid for hi-tech energy institute "

 

August 1, 2007

Solar cell sets efficiency record

Research sponsored by the American military has resulted in a high-performance solar cell that has smashed the previous record for efficiently converting the sun's rays into electricity.

Continue reading " Solar cell sets efficiency record "

 

Corn wrong route for biofuels claim scientists and NGOs

The American love affair with ethanol derived from corn will ultimately be bad for farming and bad for the environment, according to scientists, campaigners and industry insiders.

Continue reading " Corn wrong route for biofuels claim scientists and NGOs "

 

July 31, 2007

Photosynthesis could be a key to eco-friendly energy

Understanding how plants use solar energy could play a big role in the future energy supply, claim scientists.

Continue reading " Photosynthesis could be a key to eco-friendly energy "

 

July 23, 2007

EU energy use continues to grow

Electricity consumption in the EU is growing, despite the extensive efficiency drive being promoted by member states.

Continue reading " EU energy use continues to grow "

 

July 20, 2007

Ireland to push green energy sector

Ireland is in a strong position to play a central role in the global green energy boom, a government minister believes.

Continue reading " Ireland to push green energy sector "

 

July 19, 2007

Power cut fears after Japan quake

There are fears of power shortages in Tokyo, as the scale of the earthquake damage to the country's biggest nuclear power station becomes clear.

Continue reading " Power cut fears after Japan quake "

 

July 13, 2007

Brown has performed public U-turn on nuclear power, says Greenpeace

Britain's new Prime Minister Gordon Brown has sabotaged public nuclear consultation and acted unlawfully, Greenpeace has declared.

Continue reading " Brown has performed public U-turn on nuclear power, says Greenpeace "

 

July 11, 2007

Italians facing pasta price rise

Italian pasta manufacturers have warned that the price of pasta, one of Italy's staple foods, will go up by about 20% this autumn.

Continue reading " Italians facing pasta price rise "

 

July 6, 2007

Biofuels 'to push farm prices up'

The rapidly growing biofuel market will keep farm commodity prices high over the next decade, a key study has said.

Continue reading " Biofuels 'to push farm prices up' "

 

Good vibes power tiny generator

A tiny generator powered by natural vibrations could soon be helping keep heart pacemakers working.

Continue reading " Good vibes power tiny generator "

 

July 5, 2007

Gadgets 'threaten energy savings'

The growing popularity of hi-tech devices, such as flat-screen TVs and digital radios, threaten to undermine efforts to save energy, a report says.

Continue reading " Gadgets 'threaten energy savings' "

 

July 3, 2007

Wind farm 'is threat to eagles'

Golden eagles are gravely threatened by a £200m wind farm scheme proposed for the Hebridean island of Lewis, campaigners have warned.

Continue reading " Wind farm 'is threat to eagles' "

 

China to search for oil in Sudan

China's biggest oil company CNPC has reached a deal with Sudan to search for oil and gas in the north of the country on the coast of the Red Sea.

Continue reading " China to search for oil in Sudan "

 

July 2, 2007

McDonald's puts oil to green use

McDonald's is to convert all its UK delivery vehicles to run on biodiesel, using the firm's supply of cooking oil.

Continue reading " McDonald's puts oil to green use "

 

June 29, 2007

Charity attacks rush for biofuels

A furious attack on the drive to grow more biofuels has been launched by a charity supporting poor farmers in developing countries.

Continue reading " Charity attacks rush for biofuels "

 

June 28, 2007

Climate change is greatest challenge Welsh Coastline

Renewable energy could play a big role in saving Wales' coastline whose greatest current challenge is climate change, according to the Welsh Minister for Sustainability and Rural Development

Continue reading " Climate change is greatest challenge Welsh Coastline "

 

June 27, 2007

Protests at Iran fuel rationing

Iranian motorists have reacted with fury after the government announced fuel rationing for private vehicles.

Continue reading " Protests at Iran fuel rationing "

 

Monitors 'to see N Korea reactor'

A team of UN nuclear inspectors will soon be allowed to visit the North Korean reactor at the centre of a key disarmament deal, reports say.

Continue reading " Monitors 'to see N Korea reactor' "

 

Russia eyes vast Arctic territory

Russian geologists say they have data that would support a claim to about 1.2m sq km (463,000 sq miles) of energy-rich territory in the Arctic.

Continue reading " Russia eyes vast Arctic territory "

 

Government consults on cap and trade

Consultation has begun on plans to introduce a cap and trade scheme to cover some of the UK's most energy intensive industries.

Continue reading " Government consults on cap and trade "

 

June 25, 2007

HIPs to become law on August 1st

The Government has now laid the two sets of revised regulations necessary to deliver energy performance certificates (EPCs) and home information packs (HIPs) into the housing market on 1 August 2007.

Continue reading " HIPs to become law on August 1st "

 

June 21, 2007

Fruit could make 'powerful fuel'

The sugar found in fruit such as apples and oranges can be converted into a new type of low carbon fuel for cars, US scientists have said.

Continue reading " Fruit could make 'powerful fuel' "

 

June 19, 2007

Huge oilfield discovered in Ghana

UK firm Tullow Oil has announced the discovery of 600 million barrels of light oil offshore from Ghana.

Continue reading " Huge oilfield discovered in Ghana "

 

June 18, 2007

Cities' carbon footprint mapped out

Interactive maps showing the total carbon emissions of over 30 British towns and cities, as well as outlining what proportion of the CO2 is produced by businesses, have been produced by the Carbon Trust.

Continue reading " Cities' carbon footprint mapped out "

 

Taskforce claims UK energy policy is "hotch-potch"

A new report by a high-level taskforce, chaired by the Chancellor of the University of Oxford, Lord Patten of Barnes, claims that the present UK energy policy is a "hotch-potch" of measures unlikely to deliver, and that change is needed with respect to policy on energy security, climate change and development aid.

Continue reading " Taskforce claims UK energy policy is "hotch-potch" "

 

June 15, 2007

Al Gore to present green awards

Eight UK green energy companies and a host of international contenders - from Tanzania to Peru - have made the finalist list for the Ashden Awards for Sustainable Energy, which will take place in London on June 21st.

Continue reading " Al Gore to present green awards "

 

June 14, 2007

Swinging wave device to be tested

A wave energy system which operates at least six metres (19ft) below the sea's surface will be tested off Orkney.

Continue reading " Swinging wave device to be tested "

 

Water wheel plan for River Mersey

Proposals for a giant water wheel stretching across the River Mersey are due to be revealed.

Continue reading " Water wheel plan for River Mersey "

 

June 8, 2007

Wireless energy promise powers up

A clean-cut vision of a future freed from the rat's nest of cables needed to power today's electronic gadgets has come one step closer to reality.

Continue reading " Wireless energy promise powers up "

 

June 7, 2007

First UK biodiesel train launched

The UK's first train to run on biodiesel is going into service as part of an attempt to make rail travel more environmentally friendly.

Continue reading " First UK biodiesel train launched "

 

June 4, 2007

Small firms urged to ignore ‘win-back’ energy contracts

Energywatch, the independent energy watchdog, is warning small businesses to ignore ‘win-back’ energy contracts or risk facing court action.

Continue reading " Small firms urged to ignore ‘win-back’ energy contracts "

 

June 1, 2007

Nuclear reactor secrets revealed

Instructions on how to build a nuclear reactor have been revealed from five sealed envelopes that have lain hidden for almost 70 years.

Continue reading " Nuclear reactor secrets revealed "

 

May 15, 2007

Coal 'can be clean and reliable'

New technology means coal can be both a clean and secure source of energy, according to a UK think-tank report.

Continue reading " Coal 'can be clean and reliable' "

 

May 11, 2007

Green light for home energy rating software

The software used to calculate the energy performance of buildings has been approved as the UK prepares to implement energy ratings for homes sold across England and Wales.

Continue reading " Green light for home energy rating software "

 

May 10, 2007

Grants cut for home energy scheme

The government's decision to reduce individual grants for homeowners wanting to produce their own renewable energy has been criticised.

Continue reading " Grants cut for home energy scheme "

 

May 9, 2007

UN warns on impacts of biofuels

A UN report warns that a hasty switch to biofuels could have major impacts on livelihoods and the environment.

Continue reading " UN warns on impacts of biofuels "

 

May 8, 2007

Coconut oil powers island's cars

People on the island of Bougainville in Papua New Guinea have found their own solution to high energy prices - the humble coconut.

Continue reading " Coconut oil powers island's cars "

 

May 3, 2007

Garage biofuel pumps called for

The UK needs a biofuel pump on every forecourt to help achieve a new EU green power target, according to the Renewable Energy Association (REA).

Continue reading " Garage biofuel pumps called for "

 

Foster's hops on green bandwagon

Australian brewer Foster's has teamed up with scientists to create the world's first "beer battery".

Continue reading " Foster's hops on green bandwagon "

 

April 30, 2007

Solar loans light up rural India

More than 100,000 people in rural India have benefited from an innovative loan scheme that helps families buy home solar power systems, the UN has said.

Continue reading " Solar loans light up rural India "

 

April 20, 2007

Grants to cut home energy waste

House-buyers purchasing the most energy-wasteful properties could get grants of up to £2,700 to improve energy efficiency, the Government has said.

Continue reading " Grants to cut home energy waste "

 

Oil billions beckon Falkland Islands

If you believe the oil men, the inhabitants of the Falkland Islands could soon become among the richest people in the world.

Continue reading " Oil billions beckon Falkland Islands "

 

Surge in British Gas complaints

British Gas has seen complaints from customers more than double since last year, according to Energywatch.

Continue reading " Surge in British Gas complaints "

 

Surge in British Gas complaints

British Gas has seen complaints from customers more than double since last year, according to Energywatch.

Continue reading " Surge in British Gas complaints "

 

April 19, 2007

Pig fat to be turned into diesel

A solution for the world's energy crisis may come in the form of a pig.

Continue reading " Pig fat to be turned into diesel "

 

April 16, 2007

Homes to get free energy monitors

Every household in the UK will be able to request a free device that shows how much electricity is being used in the home at any one particular moment.

Continue reading " Homes to get free energy monitors "

 

April 4, 2007

Planning law eased for turbines

Installing wind turbines and solar panels on homes should not necessarily require planning permission, the government has suggested.

Continue reading " Planning law eased for turbines "

 

April 3, 2007

EU fuel push 'may damage forests'

Oil firms have warned that European Union plans on biofuels could damage the world's rainforests.

Continue reading " EU fuel push 'may damage forests' "

 

April 2, 2007

EU targets hit UK energy strategy

Britain's energy plans have been thrown into disarray by ambitious European Union targets.

Continue reading " EU targets hit UK energy strategy "

 

March 29, 2007

Cameron forced to remove turbine

Conservative leader David Cameron has had to remove his wind turbine from his west London home's roof because it was put up in the wrong place.

Continue reading " Cameron forced to remove turbine "

 

Push to exploit English woodfuel

A plan has been launched in England to boost the supply of woodfuel.

Continue reading " Push to exploit English woodfuel "

 

Portugal opens major solar plant

Portugal has inaugurated what it says is the world's most powerful solar power plant.

Continue reading " Portugal opens major solar plant "

 

March 26, 2007

Both public and private money needed to deliver clean energy

Partnerships between the private and public sector will be needed if the world's future energy needs are to be met using environmentally sustainable technologies, according to a coterie of international development banks.

Continue reading " Both public and private money needed to deliver clean energy "

 

March 13, 2007

Coal power station plan unveiled

An energy firm has unveiled plans to build the first new coal-fired power station in the UK for 20 years.

Continue reading " Coal power station plan unveiled "

 

March 12, 2007

Green energy funding boost for developing countries

Renewables and energy efficiency projects in the developing world are to receive a 3 million euro funding boost through the REEEP partnership, which announced its largest project call yet this week.

Continue reading " Green energy funding boost for developing countries "

 

US time switch set to save energy

The US has switched to daylight saving time, or summer time, three weeks earlier than usual to cut fuel consumption and help the environment.

Continue reading " US time switch set to save energy "

 

EU agrees renewable energy target

European Union leaders have agreed to adopt a binding target on the use of renewable energy, such as wind and solar power, officials say.

Continue reading " EU agrees renewable energy target "

 

March 6, 2007

Wind turbines save '£10 a year'

Many people would save just £10 a year on their electricity bill by installing a wind turbine on their roof, according to a leading turbine technology firm.

Continue reading " Wind turbines save '£10 a year' "

 

March 1, 2007

Petrol retailers say fuel is safe

Petrol retailers have insisted that their fuel is safe, despite hundreds of complaints that cars have broken down after leaving forecourts.

Continue reading " Petrol retailers say fuel is safe "

 

February 22, 2007

Government pressed on energy efficiency

Business leaders, environmentalists and MPs are calling on the Government to take action to ensure its dream of energy efficiency becomes a solid reality.

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February 20, 2007

Orkney to get 'biggest' wave farm

Scottish ministers have announced funding for what has been described as the world's biggest wave energy farm.

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February 16, 2007

Blair defiant over nuclear plans

Tony Blair has said he is still firmly behind the construction of new nuclear power stations, despite losing a High Court battle with Greenpeace.

Continue reading " Blair defiant over nuclear plans "

 

February 14, 2007

Mobile networks powered by wind

Wind and solar energy could be used to set up mobile phone networks in rural areas of the world without power.

Continue reading " Mobile networks powered by wind "

 

February 13, 2007

SunFuel to shine on VW range

This eco-friendly pump might seem corny, but biofuel made from straw, hay and even wood is on its wayThis eco-friendly pump might seem corny, but biofuel made from straw, hay and even wood is on its way

Continue reading " SunFuel to shine on VW range "

 

February 12, 2007

Retailers call for tax cuts on energy-efficient products

The British Retail Consortium (BRC) has issued a statement calling on the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Gordon Brown, to promote the take-up of green technology by lowering VAT on energy-efficient products, such as low-carbon light-bulbs.

Continue reading " Retailers call for tax cuts on energy-efficient products "

 

February 9, 2007

Oil prices back above $60 again

Oil prices have rebounded above $60 after a fire at a US oilfield and amid the continuing cold snap there.

Continue reading " Oil prices back above $60 again "

 

UK wind power reaches milestone

The UK is about to become only the seventh nation in the world to have more than two gigawatts (GW) of operational wind power capacity.

Continue reading " UK wind power reaches milestone "

 

February 8, 2007

British Gas cuts domestic prices

British Gas has said it will reduce its gas and electricity prices next month.

Continue reading " British Gas cuts domestic prices "

 

February 2, 2007

Europe to clean up transport fuels

Europe is set to clean up transport fuels by introducing new standards for carbon content in diesel and petrol, the European Commission said on Wednesday.

Continue reading " Europe to clean up transport fuels "

 

January 31, 2007

Probe into bid for Scottish Power

The European Commission is investigating the proposed £11.6bn takeover of Scottish Power by the Spanish firm Iberdrola.

Continue reading " Probe into bid for Scottish Power "

 

January 24, 2007

Bush critics seek more energy action

President George W Bush - an oilman by trade - surprised many people last year with his frank declaration that America was "addicted to oil", and that the country needed to break that addiction.

Continue reading " Bush critics seek more energy action "

 

January 23, 2007

First EU sustainable energy week

Backed by the European Commission, the first EU Sustainable Energy Week will run from 29 January to 2 February this year under the umbrella of the Sustainable Energy Europe Campaign.

Continue reading " First EU sustainable energy week "

 

January 17, 2007

Four million switch energy supply

More than four million people switched their electricity or gas supplier last year, energy regulator Ofgem has said.

Continue reading " Four million switch energy supply "

 

January 15, 2007

Asian states sign key energy deal

Leaders at an East Asian summit have signed an agreement to cut greenhouse gas emissions and promote bio-fuels.

Continue reading " Asian states sign key energy deal "

 

January 12, 2007

Healthy stocks send oil tumbling

Mild weather and a rise in stockpiles of heating oil and petrol pushed oil prices beneath the $52-a-barrel mark for the first time since May 2005.

Continue reading " Healthy stocks send oil tumbling "

 

January 11, 2007

Germany may retain nuclear power

Senior members of Germany's government have suggested retaining nuclear power as a way of diversifying the country's sources of energy.

Continue reading " Germany may retain nuclear power "

 

Gas firms 'need tougher targets'

The gas regulator Ofgem should "focus on getting the best deal for customers" by setting companies more "challenging efficiency targets", MPs have said.

Continue reading " Gas firms 'need tougher targets' "

 

January 10, 2007

Belarus 'agrees Russian oil deal'

Belarus says it has found a compromise deal in an oil row with Russia that had threatened European crude supplies.

Continue reading " Belarus 'agrees Russian oil deal' "

 

January 9, 2007

EU bids to defuse Russia oil row

The European Union (EU) is to hold talks with Russia and Belarus in a bid to resolve a row which has led to a cut in oil supplies to much of Europe.

Continue reading " EU bids to defuse Russia oil row "

 

December 18, 2006

Carbon moves 'may boost airlines'

Airlines could reap billions of pounds in profits if emissions from planes are included in the European Trading Scheme (ETS), say two reports.

Continue reading " Carbon moves 'may boost airlines' "

 

Offshore wind farms get go-ahead

The green light has been given for two offshore wind farms in the Thames Estuary, one of which will be the world's biggest when it is completed.

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Green light for offshore windfarms

Two offshore wind farms totalling 1.3GW are to be built in the Thames Estuary after consent for the projects was granted on Monday.

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December 15, 2006

Centrica to cut retail gas bills

British Gas owner Centrica plans to cut retail gas prices in spring 2007 after a fall in wholesale costs.

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December 12, 2006

Revised wind farm plans unveiled

The company behind the UK's largest onshore wind farm project - proposed for the Hebridean island of Lewis - has unveiled revised plans for the scheme.

Continue reading " Revised wind farm plans unveiled "

 

November 28, 2006

Nottingham uni launches green tech research wing

The University of Nottingham is launching a research institute dedicated to developing clean energy technologies.

Continue reading " Nottingham uni launches green tech research wing "

 

Tyre protest goes to House of Lords

Determined campaigners fighting controversial tyre burning at a Warwickshire cement plant are taking their battle to the highest court in the land.

Continue reading " Tyre protest goes to House of Lords "

 

November 27, 2006

Family's wind turbine stirs up row

A row has blown up over plans for the first wind turbine to be stuck on the roof of a Coventry house.

Continue reading " Family's wind turbine stirs up row "

 

November 22, 2006

Intel beats drum for energy efficiency

In the wake of the Stern Report, businesses are starting to take energy efficiency seriously as an economic issue, but research from Intel suggests there is still some way to go before this concern filters down to the IT department.

Continue reading " Intel beats drum for energy efficiency "

 

November 21, 2006

Ministers to sign fusion accord

An international consortium is set to sign a formal agreement to build an experimental nuclear fusion reactor.

Continue reading " Ministers to sign fusion accord "

 

November 16, 2006

Biofuel market 'grew fivefold in a year'

The bio-fuel market is expanding rapidly, with a fivefold rise in sales between 2004-2005, the Government said as it reviewed its non-food crops strategy.

Continue reading " Biofuel market 'grew fivefold in a year' "

 

November 14, 2006

Large companies to be told to get energy efficient

While the EU's Emissions Trading System encourages energy-intensive industry to tackle its carbon output, there are relatively few incentives to persuade other large organisations to do the same.

Continue reading " Large companies to be told to get energy efficient "

 

November 7, 2006

World risks 'dirty' energy future

The world could be dependent on "dirty, insecure and expensive" energy by 2030, an influential report has warned.

Continue reading " World risks 'dirty' energy future "

 

November 3, 2006

Average gas bill 'up by a third'

The average domestic gas bill has risen by more than a third in the past year, a survey of energy consumers suggests.

Continue reading " Average gas bill 'up by a third' "

 

November 2, 2006

Government seeks boost for local energy

A radical shift away from large centralised power production to community based 'locally grown' energy could help cut carbon emissions and improve efficiency, Alistair Darling said today.

Continue reading " Government seeks boost for local energy "

 

November 1, 2006

Oil prices dip despite Opec cuts

Oil prices have fallen in early Wednesday trading, despite the start of agreed production cuts by members of the Opec oil producers' cartel.

Continue reading " Oil prices dip despite Opec cuts "

 

October 23, 2006

Britain tops energy waste league

Britain is Europe's worst energy waster, with bad habits such as leaving appliances on stand-by set to waste £11bn by 2010, a study has claimed.

Continue reading " Britain tops energy waste league "

 

October 22, 2006

UK 'has squandered oil revenues'

The government has been accused of "squandering" the windfalls of the country's now dwindling North Sea oil and gas reserves.

Continue reading " UK 'has squandered oil revenues' "

 

October 20, 2006

Buying a wind turbine should be as easy as buying a sofa - Minister

The public should be able to buy their own wind turbines on the never-never, to take the financial sting out of their installation, according to the Government Minister responsible for climate change issues.

Continue reading " Buying a wind turbine should be as easy as buying a sofa - Minister "

 

EU to discuss energy with Putin

European Union leaders are meeting in southern Finland to discuss how to ensure stable supplies of energy.

Continue reading " EU to discuss energy with Putin "

 

October 19, 2006

EU sets "ambitious" energy goals

An action plan to cut Europe's energy consumption by 20% before 2020 has been outlined by the European Commission.

Continue reading " EU sets "ambitious" energy goals "

 

Clean coal 'both green and competitive'

The EU reiterated its support for carbon capture and storage this week when energy commissioner Andris Pielbalgs visited a clean coal plant in Italy, praising the technology's combination of green credentials with economic competitiveness.

Continue reading " Clean coal 'both green and competitive' "

 

October 17, 2006

Leaks knock British Energy shares

British Energy shares have lost 24% in value after the firm found cracks in pipes at one of its nuclear reactors.

Continue reading " Leaks knock British Energy shares "

 

October 13, 2006

Row over renewable energy scheme

A renewable energy scheme is being funded by cuts from other projects designed to promote household energy efficiency, the BBC has learned.

Continue reading " Row over renewable energy scheme "

 

October 11, 2006

Energy firm rapped over carbon offset claims

Scottish & Southern Energy Group has become the first energy company to be hauled over the coals by the Advertising Standards Authority for failing to be able to back up claims that its green tariff offset its customers' carbon emissions.

Continue reading " Energy firm rapped over carbon offset claims "

 

October 10, 2006

Ground-breaking day for Green Energy - Darling

Construction today started on what will be Europe's largest onshore wind farm, as the Government set out proposals outlined in the Energy Review to see a five-fold increase in the amount of electricity generated from renewable sources in the UK.

Continue reading " Ground-breaking day for Green Energy - Darling "

 

October 6, 2006

BP and Shell fined for dirty fuel

European energy giants BP and Shell have agreed to pay fines totalling $1.5 million to the USA's Environmental Protection Agency after distributing petrol that did not meet legal pollution standards.

Continue reading " BP and Shell fined for dirty fuel "

 

October 1, 2006

Renewables ripe for investment

An impressive line-up of speakers outlined a compelling case for investing in the blossoming renewables sector at an international conference in London this week.

Continue reading " Renewables ripe for investment "

 

September 28, 2006

Engine on a chip drives laptops

It is one of the most hotly contested and closely watched areas of research - how to provide the most efficient energy source for the mobile devices we carry with us.

Continue reading " Engine on a chip drives laptops "

 

September 26, 2006

Biofuels 'answer' to trade talks

US tycoon Ted Turner has said a focus on biofuels could break the current deadlock stalling world trade talks.

Continue reading " Biofuels 'answer' to trade talks "

 

September 25, 2006

Oil continues its slide below $60

World oil prices have fallen below $60 a barrel for the first time in more than six months as their dramatic slide of recent weeks has continued.

Continue reading " Oil continues its slide below $60 "

 

September 22, 2006

Energy company scores top marks in green consumer guide

Renewable energy supplier Good Energy was the only company scoring 100% in the latest edition of ethical consumer bible the Green Shopping Guide, published this week.

Continue reading " Energy company scores top marks in green consumer guide "

 

September 21, 2006

Top scientists challenge oil giant on climate change denial

Britain's top scientific institution has accused US oil giant ExxonMobil of deliberately undermining the scientific consensus on climate change in its own communications and by funding organisations that mislead the public.

Continue reading " Top scientists challenge oil giant on climate change denial "

 

September 20, 2006

Ethanol faces uphill road in US

The United States produces almost half of the world's maize, or corn, harvest - most of it in the Midwest. It is used for food, animal feed and, increasingly, it is converted into ethanol fuel.

Continue reading " Ethanol faces uphill road in US "

 

September 19, 2006

Britain 'lagging behind' on biofuels

The Government is not giving bio-energy a chance to fulfil its carbon-saving potential with a "piecemeal policy" that ignores bio-mass heat generation and focuses solely on bio-fuels for transport and electricity, a parliamentary committee has said.

Continue reading " Britain 'lagging behind' on biofuels "

 

September 18, 2006

UK 'lacks ambition' on bioenergy

British policies on bioenergy from plants and other natural materials lack ambition and clarity, MPs have said.

Continue reading " UK 'lacks ambition' on bioenergy "

 

Two billion households worldwide could be solar powered

Two billion households worldwide could realistically be powered by solar energy by 2025, according to a joint report launched today by the European Photovoltaic Industry Association (EPIA) and Greenpeace.

Continue reading " Two billion households worldwide could be solar powered "

 

September 16, 2006

Solar panels to power London's City Hall

Photovoltaic panels will be the latest addition to London City Hall's eco-credentials, after their installation was given the go-ahead by Southwark Council.

Continue reading " Solar panels to power London's City Hall "

 

September 13, 2006

Gasification plant debate heats up

The Green Party plans to take its fight against a proposed gasification plant to the wire as it argues against the installation at the final planning hearing this week.

Continue reading " Gasification plant debate heats up "

 

September 12, 2006

Semiconductors giant enters solar market

Global semiconductor equipment firm Applied Materials announced its entry onto the photovoltaics market, which it says is at an "inflexion point," predicting that costs of solar panels will reduce threefold by 2010.

Continue reading " Semiconductors giant enters solar market "

 

September 6, 2006

Trade unions go green

The TUC is asking union members to do their bit for the environment and has published a ten-step guide as a starting place for reducing waste and energy consumption in the workplace.

Continue reading " Trade unions go green "

 

Investment boost for Scottish renewables firms

Public and private finance is to be poured into the development of the Scottish renewables sector to help the northern nation stay ahead of the game.

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September 4, 2006

Start to British Gas price rises

Millions of UK homes are facing higher gas and electricity bills as the latest price increases from British Gas have come into effect.

Continue reading " Start to British Gas price rises "

 

Germany warms to nuclear

The debate over the future of nuclear power in Germany is heating up once again following a clash between the economy and environment ministers over the nuclear phase-out promised by the previous government.

Continue reading " Germany warms to nuclear "

 

September 3, 2006

Scotland vows support for wave power

Wave energy in Scotland received a boost this week with the Scottish Executive's announcement that it will support a major project that will see Scottish-made Polemis devices installed in Orkney.

Continue reading " Scotland vows support for wave power "

 

August 31, 2006

Power station protesters arrested

Four campaigners have been arrested ahead of a "mass day of action" against carbon emissions at Britain's largest coal-fired power station.

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August 30, 2006

Coal keeps US economy burning

The United States is the world's most powerful economy, but much of that power is derived from rather old-fashioned sources.

Continue reading " Coal keeps US economy burning "

 

August 29, 2006

Farmers to harvest energy with mini wind turbines

Farmers could be planting rows of mini-wind turbines in hedgerows soon, as part of an innovative project to harness the countryside's wind energy while avoiding the usual objections over 'unsightliness.'

Continue reading " Farmers to harvest energy with mini wind turbines "

 

August 26, 2006

Nuclear fuel demand on the rise

The demand for nuclear material is pushing up prices of uranium ore, while illicit trafficking in radioactive materials is rising, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Continue reading " Nuclear fuel demand on the rise "

 

August 24, 2006

2005 a bumper year for renewables investment

More cash was ploughed in the renewable energy sector last year than in any other, with 2005 seeing an investment of US$8bn more than during the previous 12 months.

Continue reading " 2005 a bumper year for renewables investment "

 

August 21, 2006

Turbines wind up as art installation

A Cornish wind farm is set to delight its fans - and horrify its detractors - by temporarily transformation into a work of art.

Continue reading " Turbines wind up as art installation "

 

Chinese boomtown makes solar heating the law

Solar powered heating systems for new residential buildings will become a legal obligation in the Chinese boom city of Shenzhen, as authorities attempt to harness the region's annual 2000 hours of sunshine.

Continue reading " Chinese boomtown makes solar heating the law "

 

Nuclear clean-up costs escalate further

The bill for the decommissioning and clean-up of Britain's aging nuclear plants is likely to "significantly" exceed current estimates, a Government committee has said.

Continue reading " Nuclear clean-up costs escalate further "

 

August 17, 2006

Powergen increases energy prices

Energy company Powergen has said it is putting up its gas and electricity prices for the second time this year.

Continue reading " Powergen increases energy prices "

 

August 14, 2006

Cornish wind fair hopes to draw thousands

Promoting renewable energy and raising awareness of climate change will be the goal of a free event planned in Cornwall over the bank holiday weekend.

Continue reading " Cornish wind fair hopes to draw thousands "

 

August 9, 2006

Bio-fuels clean up American wastelands

The potential of biofuel crops to grow on brownfield sites, with the added bonus of the plants sucking up pollutants, could help find more efficient ways of producing biodiesel and ethanol.

Continue reading " Bio-fuels clean up American wastelands "

 

Sweden's nuclear scare sparks

The recent incident at a nuclear reactor in Sweden where back-up generators failed during a power cut has sparked protests and debate about the future of Europe's nuclear industry.

Continue reading " Sweden's nuclear scare sparks "

 

August 8, 2006

Huge returns for energy efficiency investment

Global investment of US$700 billion into energy efficiency over the next 25 years could reap returns in excess of US$1.4 trillion, according to top energy economists.

Continue reading " Huge returns for energy efficiency investment "

 

August 3, 2006

India, UK climb E&Y's renewables ranking

India has become the world's third most attractive market for renewable energy investment, displacing Germany in the top three, according to Ernst & Young.

Continue reading " India, UK climb E&Y's renewables ranking "

 

August 2, 2006

High street solar panels on sale

A major British electrical retailer is selling solar panels in high street shops for the first time.

Continue reading " High street solar panels on sale "

 

July 29, 2006

VAT rules hit Energy Saving Trust

A UK body which advises households on reducing energy consumption says it may have to cut jobs and cancel projects because of a new tax ruling.

Continue reading " VAT rules hit Energy Saving Trust "

 

July 28, 2006

GE and BP to build up to 15 hydrogen power plants

Oil giant BP and General Electric are to work together to develop between 10 and 15 hydrogen power stations with carbon capture and storage.

Continue reading " GE and BP to build up to 15 hydrogen power plants "

 

July 27, 2006

British Gas raises energy prices

British Gas owner Centrica has said it plans to raise gas bills by as much as 12.4% for its 10.7 million customers.

Continue reading " British Gas raises energy prices "

 

July 25, 2006

Energy prices rise at EDF Energy

EDF Energy is to raise the price of gas and electricity for its five million customers, as it has been affected by rising wholesale energy costs.

Continue reading " Energy prices rise at EDF Energy "

 

July 24, 2006

Researchers drop fuel cell bomb shell

One of the UK's biggest funders of economic research has backed a report which claims development of fuel cells is being stifled because car manufacturers and power generators are scared of the long-term implications.

Continue reading " Researchers drop fuel cell bomb shell "

 

July 18, 2006

Serpentine solar boat to set sail

A shuttle boat powered entirely by the sun is to be launched on the Serpentine lake in London's Hyde Park.

Continue reading " Serpentine solar boat to set sail "

 

July 17, 2006

Energy moves up the agenda for SMEs

As prices continue to rise and a secure, reliable supply becomes less of a certainty, small business is turning its attention to energy issues - and hoping the energy review will not leave it out in the cold.

Continue reading " Energy moves up the agenda for SMEs "

 

July 14, 2006

Israel crisis sends oil above $78

Growing international tension over Israel's offensive in Lebanon has sent world markets tumbling after oil prices rose above $78 a barrel.

Continue reading " Israel crisis sends oil above $78 "

 

July 13, 2006

'Global fear' over energy plans

People fear energy policies are threatening the environment and global stability, a BBC poll suggests.

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July 12, 2006

Few surprises from Energy Review

A new generation of nuclear power stations and measures to boost renewables are, as widely predicted, at the heart of the Government's Energy Review.

Continue reading " Few surprises from Energy Review "

 

July 11, 2006

Nuclear plants set for go ahead

A new generation of nuclear power stations is expected to be given the green light as the government unveils the results of its energy review.

Continue reading " Nuclear plants set for go ahead "

 

July 10, 2006

Hong Kong wind farm could improve air quality

A 100MW offshore wind farm could go some way towards combating Hong Kong's terrible air pollution, according to the company that wants to build it.

Continue reading " Hong Kong wind farm could improve air quality "

 

'Deeply flawed' Renewables Obligations need revision says Carbon Trust

A drastic overhaul of the existing Renewables Obligation system is needed to redress weighting in favour of onshore wind power and landfill gas, according to climate change quango the Carbon Trust.

Continue reading " 'Deeply flawed' Renewables Obligations need revision says Carbon Trust "

 

July 6, 2006

UK 'lagging' on renewable energy

Renewable energy will meet only 10% of the UK's power needs by 2020 - half the government's target - according to a report from a government-funded group.

Continue reading " UK 'lagging' on renewable energy "

 

Nuclear 'last resort' for Tories

The Tories have said nuclear power should be used only as "a last resort" to supply the UK's energy requirements.

Continue reading " Nuclear 'last resort' for Tories "

 

July 5, 2006

Electronic goods guzzling power

The amount of energy used by consumer electronics and domestic appliances in UK homes will double by 2010, said a report from the Energy Saving Trust.

Continue reading " Electronic goods guzzling power "

 

Reactor crack fears played down

The government's nuclear inspectors have played down reports of "major cracks" in the reactor cores of some UK atomic power stations.

Continue reading " Reactor crack fears played down "

 

July 3, 2006

DTI publishes renewables figures

Renewables provided 4.2% of electricity generated in Britain in 2005 - up from 3.6% the previous year - Government figures released on Thursday show.

Continue reading " DTI publishes renewables figures "

 

June 29, 2006

Lighting the key to energy saving

A global switch to efficient lighting systems would trim the world's electricity bill by nearly one-tenth.

Continue reading " Lighting the key to energy saving "

 

2006 a boom year for investment in renewable energy

Renewable energy is becoming an increasingly popular commodity to invest in, according to a new trend analysis from UN Environment Programme (UNEP).

Continue reading " 2006 a boom year for investment in renewable energy "

 

June 27, 2006

Ofgem plans £4bn energy upgrade

UK energy regulator Ofgem has said gas and electricity network operators should invest £4bn over the next five years to meet rising demand.

Continue reading " Ofgem plans £4bn energy upgrade "

 

June 23, 2006

Wind farm 'hits eagle numbers'

Wind farm turbine blades are killing a key population of Europe's largest bird of prey, UK wildlife campaigners warn.

Continue reading " Wind farm 'hits eagle numbers' "

 

June 22, 2006

Mapping out the UK's nuclear future

Next month, Prime Minister Tony Blair is expected to make public Britain's intention to invite the private sector to build a series of new nuclear power plants.

Continue reading " Mapping out the UK's nuclear future "

 

June 19, 2006

New tidal generator could mean cheaper electricity

Researchers at the University of Southampton have developed a new kind of marine generator they say could substantially reduce the cost of electricity generated from tidal power.

Continue reading " New tidal generator could mean cheaper electricity "

 

Russia's nuclear expansion plans cause alarm

Russia wants to build up to four nuclear reactors a year as it replaces aging nuclear power stations, the head of the country's nuclear energy agency Rosatom has said.

Continue reading " Russia's nuclear expansion plans cause alarm "

 

Better house insulation could save Europeans billions

Improved energy efficiency in buildings could save Europeans an annual 270bn euros in heating bills, according to a report from the European Insulation Manufacturers Association (EURIMA).

Continue reading " Better house insulation could save Europeans billions "

 

June 17, 2006

Renewables in demand - BP energy review

Renewable energies continued to grow rapidly in 2005, but still only comprise 3% of the world's total primary energy consumption, the BP Statistical Review of World Energy found.

Continue reading " Renewables in demand - BP energy review "

 

June 15, 2006

Firms 'to waste £500m of energy'

UK businesses will waste more than £500m worth of energy over the summer months, a report has said.

Continue reading " Firms 'to waste £500m of energy' "

 

June 13, 2006

Energy bills push up UK inflation

Higher gas and electricity bills helped to push UK inflation up to 2.2% in May, from 2% the month before, official figures have shown.

Continue reading " Energy bills push up UK inflation "

 

June 9, 2006

France and UK boost nuclear ties

France and the UK are to set up a joint nuclear energy forum, French President Jacques Chirac has announced at a summit with Tony Blair in Paris.

Continue reading " France and UK boost nuclear ties "

 

June 8, 2006

Portugal starts huge solar plant

Construction work has begun in southern Portugal on what is set to be the world's largest solar power station.

Continue reading " Portugal starts huge solar plant "

 

June 7, 2006

Three Gorges barrier demolished

Chinese engineers have demolished the temporary barrier behind the Three Gorges dam, in a spectacular explosion.

Continue reading " Three Gorges barrier demolished "

 

May 29, 2006

Higher nuclear usage recommended

Nuclear power should supply around 30% of Britain's energy needs, tackling the impact of climate change, Tony Blair's chief scientific adviser suggests.

Continue reading " Higher nuclear usage recommended "

 

May 25, 2006

Funding boost for Scottish microgeneration

Microgeneration in Scotland will receive a boost of £3m over the next two years - a 60% increase on previous years - Scottish authorities said on Tuesday.

Continue reading " Funding boost for Scottish microgeneration "

 

May 22, 2006

Three Gorges dam wall completed

China has completed construction of the main wall of the Three Gorges Dam - the world's largest hydro-electric project.

Continue reading " Three Gorges dam wall completed "

 

Total signs Saudi refinery deal

French oil firm Total has signed a deal with Saudi Arabia to build an oil refinery, at an estimated cost of $6bn.

Continue reading " Total signs Saudi refinery deal "

 

May 17, 2006

Ex-minister hits out at nuclear

Ex-Labour environment minister Elliot Morley has rejected the case for a new generation of nuclear plants after Tony Blair indicated his backing.

Continue reading " Ex-minister hits out at nuclear "

 

Blair backs nuclear power plans

Prime Minister Tony Blair has given his strongest signal yet that he backs the building of a new generation of nuclear power stations in the UK.

Continue reading " Blair backs nuclear power plans "

 

May 12, 2006

Cutting edge method to make energy from landfill more efficient

Producing energy from organic landfill waste could be made more efficient thanks to new research into pyrolysis, a way of melting waste down into fuel without exposing it to flames.

Continue reading " Cutting edge method to make energy from landfill more efficient "

 

May 11, 2006

Bolivia 'to compensate Petrobras'

Bolivia's state-owned energy firm has said Brazil's Petrobras should be compensated after the government seized greater control of energy resources.

Continue reading " Bolivia 'to compensate Petrobras' "

 

May 8, 2006

Giant scale is weak spot of nuclear power

The giant time and investment scales involved in nuclear power put it at an economic disadvantage in relation to renewables, a veteran Government advisor has said.

Continue reading " Giant scale is weak spot of nuclear power "

 

April 28, 2006

Ministers bullish on biomass fuel

The UK government says energy from crops, trees and waste can play a key role in meeting targets on renewable power and cutting CO2 emissions.

Continue reading " Ministers bullish on biomass fuel "

 

April 21, 2006

Cameron proposes new carbon tax

The energy tax on business should be replaced with a levy focused on cutting use of carbon fuels, Tory leader David Cameron is due to say.

Continue reading " Cameron proposes new carbon tax "

 

April 18, 2006

Nuclear row sends oil to new high

Oil prices have hit a record high of $70.86 a barrel, fuelled by growing fears over Iran's nuclear standoff with the international community.

Continue reading " Nuclear row sends oil to new high "

 

April 16, 2006

Power shortage risks 'overplayed'

Energy Minister Malcolm Wicks has accused a group of MPs of "over-egging" the risk of electricity shortages.

Continue reading " Power shortage risks 'overplayed' "

 

April 12, 2006

Oil tops $69 amid Iran tensions

Crude prices have broken through the $69 a barrel level amid rising fears of a conflict between the US and Iran.

Continue reading " Oil tops $69 amid Iran tensions "

 

April 11, 2006

EU turning Balkans into fossil fuel highway, say NGOs

The EU is encouraging dirty energy production by funding oil pipelines and fossil fuel power stations in the Balkans, an international group of NGOs said.

Continue reading " EU turning Balkans into fossil fuel highway, say NGOs "

 

April 10, 2006

Spain seen as renewables honeypot by investors

The UK has slid down the league table while Spain retains the top spot as the most attractive bet when it comes to investing in renewable energy.

Continue reading " Spain seen as renewables honeypot by investors "

 

April 6, 2006

Energy companies dominate eco-sector

Renewable energy companies continue to take the lion's share of the top spots in an economic index that measures the market value of businesses in the environmental sector.

Continue reading " Energy companies dominate eco-sector "

 

April 5, 2006

EU warns 17 states on energy laws

Brussels says 17 EU member states including the UK have failed to fully implement measures designed to make their energy markets more competitive.

Continue reading " EU warns 17 states on energy laws "

 

Russian cold snap hits BP output

Oil giant BP has said that freezing winter temperatures in Russia hit production at its TNK-BP joint venture in the first three months of the year.

Continue reading " Russian cold snap hits BP output "

 

April 4, 2006

UK offshore wind 'at crossroads'

Offshore wind energy in the UK is unlikely to reach its full potential unless there is additional support from the government, a report shows.

Continue reading " UK offshore wind 'at crossroads' "

 

April 3, 2006

Drive against energy-greedy office equipment moves forward

The energy efficiency of computers and other office equipment is to get a boost when the EU and US negotiate higher standards for the Energy Star labelling scheme.

Continue reading " Drive against energy-greedy office equipment moves forward "

 

March 30, 2006

Home power plan 'disappointment'

There has been a lukewarm reaction to the government's strategy on microgeneration, launched Wednesday.

Continue reading " Home power plan 'disappointment' "

 

March 27, 2006

EU energy policy ignores hidden costs, environmentalists say

Europeans will be paying for the hidden costs of fossil fuels and nuclear power if the EU common energy policy agreed on Friday goes ahead, environmental groups have said.

Continue reading " EU energy policy ignores hidden costs, environmentalists say "

 

Wind power 'ahead of predictions'

Onshore wind farms will provide about 5% of Britain's electricity by 2010, according to the British Wind Energy Association (BWEA).

Continue reading " Wind power 'ahead of predictions' "

 

March 24, 2006

UK's first bioethanol pump opens

The supermarket chain Morrisons is to open the first E85 pump in the UK, delivering a mixture of 85% bioethanol and 15% petrol. Fuel from the pump, at Morrisons' forecourt at Albion Way in Norwich, can be used by specially modified cars manufactured by Ford and Saab.

Continue reading " UK's first bioethanol pump opens "

 

Gas prices hit all-time high as fears of energy crisis grow

Gas prices in the UK surged to a record high yesterday as chilly weather sent demand soaring, reviving fears that Britain could face an energy crisis.

Continue reading " Gas prices hit all-time high as fears of energy crisis grow "

 

March 23, 2006

Georgia's giant hydropower plan raises wave of protest

A planned 700 MW hydroelectric dam in the Republic of Georgia funded by the World Bank would destroy a pristine mountain valley and raise energy prices while doing nothing to stop the energy-starved country's daily blackouts, Georgian and international NGOs argue.

Continue reading " Georgia's giant hydropower plan raises wave of protest "

 

March 20, 2006

EU Energy Green Paper "weak on renewables"

The new EU energy strategy misses the chance renewables offer for freeing Europe from its addiction to imported fossil fuels, environmental groups argue.

Continue reading " EU Energy Green Paper "weak on renewables" "

 

March 17, 2006

EU to sign clean coal deal with China

A bilateral agreement to "encourage and develop" the capture and storage of CO2 from coal-fired power stations will take centre stage at the 6th EU-China Energy conference in Shanghai.

Continue reading " EU to sign clean coal deal with China "

 

March 13, 2006

U.S. - India Nuclear Deal: Reckless on Every Score Say Worldwatch

The security risks inherent in the nuclear cooperation agreement reached yesterday between President Bush and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh far outweigh the energy benefits of the deal, according to researchers at the Worldwatch Institute.

Continue reading " U.S. - India Nuclear Deal: Reckless on Every Score Say Worldwatch "

 

March 10, 2006

Energy efficiency standards for homes to go up

The Government said it would raise energy efficiency standards for UK homes, after undergoing extensive criticism for the previous version of its Code for Sustainable Homes being too limited and voluntary.

Continue reading " Energy efficiency standards for homes to go up "

 

March 7, 2006

Nuclear not the answer, say Government advisors

Nuclear power is too costly and dangerous to justify its expansion in the UK, even if it cuts carbon emissions, the Government's own advisors said in a new report.

Continue reading " Nuclear not the answer, say Government advisors "

 

Mayor teams up with power giant to revolutionise London's energy supply

Community-scale power plants, a dedicated grid to supply London alone and the marriage of waste management and energy production were among the ideas on the table when Mayor Ken Livingstone announced the corporate partner which could help make the vision of the London Climate Change Agency a reality.

Continue reading " Mayor teams up with power giant to revolutionise London's energy supply "

 

March 6, 2006

'No quick fix' from nuclear power

Building new nuclear plants is not the answer to tackling climate change or securing Britain's energy supply, a government advisory panel has reported.

Continue reading " 'No quick fix' from nuclear power "

 

UK and Europe push for "right kind" of biofuels

Greenhouse emissions savings made by using biofuel vary greatly with the methods used to produce it, and must be taken into account in policy say European and UK transport officials.

Continue reading " UK and Europe push for "right kind" of biofuels "

 

Shell appeals against latest $1.5 billion Nigerian fine ruling

Almost six years after a Nigerian court first slapped a $1.5 billion fine on oil giant Shell for alleged environmental abuses the company is sticking to its guns, arguing there is no legal grounds for making it pay.

Continue reading " Shell appeals against latest $1.5 billion Nigerian fine ruling "

 

March 2, 2006

Giant wind farm plan thrown out

Plans to create England's largest wind farm in Cumbria have been rejected by the government.

Continue reading " Giant wind farm plan thrown out "

 

February 28, 2006

Powergen in big energy price rise

The power company Powergen is putting up its gas prices by 24.4% and electricity prices by 18.4%.

Continue reading " Powergen in big energy price rise "

 

February 27, 2006

America's answer to nuclear waste: recycle it

Nuclear fuel re-processing will be one of the pillars of America's new nuclear power strategy, overturning a thirty-year ban on reprocessing technologies.

Continue reading " America's answer to nuclear waste: recycle it "

 

February 24, 2006

Clean diesel could get drivers into low emission zone

Diesel drivers could enter London's proposed low emission zone without facing stiff charges using a device which would scrub out the worst of their tailpipe toxins.

Continue reading " Clean diesel could get drivers into low emission zone "

 

February 23, 2006

Profits up at British Gas owner

British Gas owner Centrica has announced an 11% rise in operating profit to £1.5bn for 2005.

Continue reading " Profits up at British Gas owner "

 

February 20, 2006

Blackouts 'threaten UK Olympics'

The London Olympics in 2012 are likely to be hit by electricity blackouts, according to a poll of energy experts.

Continue reading " Blackouts 'threaten UK Olympics' "

 

February 17, 2006

British Gas raises prices by 22%

Seventeen million British Gas customers are facing higher bills after the firm raised its gas and electricity prices.

Continue reading " British Gas raises prices by 22% "

 

February 15, 2006

Power prices rise at EDF Energy

EDF Energy, the firm which owns London Energy, Seeboard and SWEB, is to raise the price of gas and electricity for its five million customers.

Continue reading " Power prices rise at EDF Energy "

 

February 13, 2006

Oil pipeline threatening Siberia's lake Baikal sparks protests

The threat of an oil pipeline scheduled to pass within a kilometre of Siberia's lake Baikal is mounting, following Russian government attempts to silence its own experts, who had rejected the project as environmentally unsafe.

Continue reading " Oil pipeline threatening Siberia's lake Baikal sparks protests "

 

February 9, 2006

Scottish Power ups energy prices

Scottish Power, the UK's fifth biggest energy supplier, has raised the price of its gas and electricity.

Continue reading " Scottish Power ups energy prices "

 

Sweden aims for oil-free economy

Sweden says it aims to completely wean itself off oil within 15 years - without building new nuclear plants.

Continue reading " Sweden aims for oil-free economy "

 

Red buses go green in London

The first wave of hybrid buses have hit the streets of London.

Continue reading " Red buses go green in London "

 

February 2, 2006

Why UK petrol prices remain high

Soaring profits at Anglo-Dutch energy giant Royal Dutch Shell and other oil firms have led to calls from motorists for station forecourt petrol prices to be cut.

Continue reading " Why UK petrol prices remain high "

 

Can the US break its oil addiction?

In his State of the Union address, President Bush said the US was "addicted to oil" which threatens to undermine future economic growth.

Continue reading " Can the US break its oil addiction? "

 

Shell reports record UK profits

Soaring oil prices in 2005 have helped Royal Dutch Shell report a record annual profit for a UK-listed company.

Continue reading " Shell reports record UK profits "

 

Renewable energy close, Bush says

President Bush has said alternative fuels to compete with petrol could be produced within six years.

Continue reading " Renewable energy close, Bush says "

 

January 31, 2006

Iran move prompts oil price rise

Crude oil prices continued to rise on Tuesday amid growing tension between the international community and Iran over its nuclear programme.

Continue reading " Iran move prompts oil price rise "

 

Fuel poverty to increase in 2006

A sharp rise in energy bills in 2006 could force an extra 250,000 households into fuel poverty, the energy price comparison website uSwitch has warned.

Continue reading " Fuel poverty to increase in 2006 "

 

January 27, 2006

Work begins on bio power station

Work is set to start on a £90m biomass power station, hailed as the largest project of its kind in the UK.

Continue reading " Work begins on bio power station "

 

January 25, 2006

Sea energy 'could help power UK'

Wave and tidal power can provide a fifth of the UK's electricity needs, according to a new report.

Continue reading " Sea energy 'could help power UK' "

 

January 23, 2006

'No do-nothing option' over energy

Doing nothing about the UK's future energy supplies is not an option, the Government insisted as it kick-started a drive to speed up a decision on whether to build new nuclear power stations.

Continue reading " 'No do-nothing option' over energy "

 

Anger over 24-hour street lights

A council that recently boasted it was "leading the way" in protecting the environment has come under fire for leaving street lights on day and night.

Continue reading " Anger over 24-hour street lights "

 

Majority prefer renewables and efficiency over nuclear future

An overwhelming majority of people favour the promotion of renewable energy sources and energy efficiency measures as the best ways to tackle climate change rather than restarting a nuclear power programme, a new poll has found.

Continue reading " Majority prefer renewables and efficiency over nuclear future "

 

Dublin faces fallout from nuclear row

Ireland has sparked the ire of the European Commission by going over its head and asking the UN to settle a spat over the future of the Sellafield nuclear plant.

Continue reading " Dublin faces fallout from nuclear row "

 

TV's 'sleep' button stands accused

Britons waste the equivalent of around two power stations worth of electricity each year by leaving TV sets and other gadgets on standby.

Continue reading " TV's 'sleep' button stands accused "

 

Nuclear reactors under spotlight

The safety, cost and suitability of nuclear energy is to be assessed by the Health and Safety Executive, the BBC has learnt.

Continue reading " Nuclear reactors under spotlight "

 

January 22, 2006

New supply 'to ease UK gas bills'

New gas supplies should ease the burden of rising energy prices, the UK's Trade and Industry Secretary has said.

Continue reading " New supply 'to ease UK gas bills' "

 

January 17, 2006

Britons 'accepting nuclear power'

A majority of people in Britain would accept new nuclear power stations if they helped fight climate change, a poll suggests.

Continue reading " Britons 'accepting nuclear power' "

 

January 16, 2006

UK's first bio-ethanol plant to be built in Somerset

The UK's first bio-ethanol plant has been granted planning permission to be built in Henstridge, South Somerset.

Continue reading " UK's first bio-ethanol plant to be built in Somerset "

 

January 13, 2006

Shell's Nigeria output cut by 20%

Shell has cut its Nigeria oil output by 20% after a pipeline explosion and the kidnapping of four foreign oil workers.

Continue reading " Shell's Nigeria output cut by 20% "

 

January 12, 2006

Australia, US push cleaner energy

Australia and the US have each promised more than $50m for research into cleaner forms of energy.

Continue reading " Australia, US push cleaner energy "

 

January 9, 2006

Oil prices rally by more than $1

Crude oil prices have rallied by more than $1 a barrel after sinking to four-and-a-half month lows on Thursday.

Continue reading " Oil prices rally by more than $1 "

 

December 16, 2005

Next generation could rely on micro-generation

The Government has predicted that almost half the UK's energy needs could be met by home-based renewables within the next 45 years.

Continue reading " Next generation could rely on micro-generation "

 

Centrica warns gas bills to rise

The owner of British Gas has warned that energy bills will rise again in 2006 to pay for soaring gas prices.

Continue reading " Centrica warns gas bills to rise "

 

December 14, 2005

Canada harnesses power of tides

The one thing that every schoolchild learns about the Bay of Fundy is that it has the highest tides in the world.

Continue reading " Canada harnesses power of tides "

 

December 7, 2005

Power line 'key for green energy'

Failure to build a controversial new power line could kill Scotland's renewable energy plans "stone dead", green businesses have warned.

Continue reading " Power line 'key for green energy' "

 

December 2, 2005

BP to set up multi-billion renewable energy offshoot

Energy giant BP has announced plans to set up the world's biggest low-carbon power business, which it believes will bring multi-billion pound profits within the next ten years.

Continue reading " BP to set up multi-billion renewable energy offshoot "

 

November 30, 2005

Business cheers for Blair energy review

It came as no surprise when CBI director general Sir Digby Jones took a tough stance against the Greenpeace protesters who had disrupted Prime Minster Tony Blair's speech on energy policy and other issues.

Continue reading " Business cheers for Blair energy review "

 

November 29, 2005

Nuclear protest hits Blair speech

Greenpeace protesters have disrupted a speech used by Tony Blair to launch an energy review which could lead to new nuclear power stations in the UK.

Continue reading " Nuclear protest hits Blair speech "

 

Blair to unveil 'nuclear option'

Tony Blair is likely to use a speech to business leaders at the CBI to launch a review of UK energy policy which could lead to new nuclear power stations.

Continue reading " Blair to unveil 'nuclear option' "

 

November 28, 2005

How coal is cleaning up its act

Coal is back on the agenda as a serious player in meeting the world's future energy demands.

After being pushed to one side in the "dash for gas" in the 1990s, attention is returning to the role of coal in the global energy mix because of its widespread availability and stable price.

Continue reading " How coal is cleaning up its act "

 

November 26, 2005

No choice over nuclear - Beckett

Nuclear power may have to be embraced in a bid to combat climate change even though it is not a "sustainable" energy source, Margaret Beckett has admitted.

Continue reading " No choice over nuclear - Beckett "

 

November 23, 2005

Lights 'won't go out' this winter

The lights across Britain will not go out this winter "under any scenario whatsoever", Trade and Industry Secretary Alan Johnson has insisted.

Continue reading " Lights 'won't go out' this winter "

 

November 22, 2005

Gas price surge shows no slowdown

The UK's cold snap has driven the wholesale price of gas up to its highest level since March.

Continue reading " Gas price surge shows no slowdown "

 

Blair says nuclear choice needed

Tony Blair says "controversial and difficult" decisions will have to be taken over the need for nuclear power to tackle the UK energy crisis.

Continue reading " Blair says nuclear choice needed "

 

Oil prices rise on colder weather

Oil prices were pushed higher on Monday as a winter storm began to hit the north-eastern states of the US at the start of Thanksgiving week.

Continue reading " Oil prices rise on colder weather "

 

November 21, 2005

CBI urges ruling on nuclear power

Business leaders are calling on the government to reach a decision on the future of nuclear energy as concerns grow over future UK power supplies.

Continue reading " CBI urges ruling on nuclear power "

 

November 18, 2005

Storing power could blow away intermittent inefficiency allegations

Storing the electricity generated from renewable sources and releasing it to the grid as and when it is needed could revolutionise renewable sector business models and blow away allegations of intermittency that often dog the wind power sector in particular, a Canadian energy management company has claimed.

Continue reading " Storing power could blow away intermittent inefficiency allegations "

 

November 17, 2005

Nigeria orders end to gas flaring

Oil and gas companies have been ordered to stop gas flaring in the Niger Delta, after the Federal High Court said the practice violates guaranteed constitutional rights to life and dignity.

Continue reading " Nigeria orders end to gas flaring "

 

November 15, 2005

UK 'has high-quality wind supply'

The UK's wind is better for generating electricity than that of its rivals, according to a government-backed study.

Continue reading " UK 'has high-quality wind supply' "

 

November 10, 2005

Britain facing large energy gap

Britain is facing a shortfall in energy supply in the near future, according to a major report.

Continue reading " Britain facing large energy gap "

 

November 9, 2005

CBI's energy fears for businesses

A fifth of West Midlands manufacturing firms expect shut-downs and lay-offs if a severe winter sets in, a poll shows.

Continue reading " CBI's energy fears for businesses "

 

November 2, 2005

Funds to promote renewable energy

A £30m funding package aimed at promoting renewable electricity sources and reducing carbon emissions is to be unveiled by the energy minister.

Continue reading " Funds to promote renewable energy "

 

October 31, 2005

Grants available for biomass heating boilers

The Government is to make available grants for anyone installing biomass heating boilers as one of the recommendations from the biomass task force which published the results of its consultation last week.

Continue reading " Grants available for biomass heating boilers "

 

October 26, 2005

Biomass energy report criticised

Biomass, which sees crops grown for use as environmentally friendly fuels, should be used to generate heat, a year-long task force study concluded.

Continue reading " Biomass energy report criticised "

 

The Arctic's new gold rush

A predicted thaw in the Arctic ice cover combined with a search for energy supplies is leading to a new "gold rush" in the high north, bringing diplomatic problems in its wake as five countries vie for access to resources.

Continue reading " The Arctic's new gold rush "

 

October 25, 2005

Cows make fuel for biogas train

You have to tell yourself the cows are going to die anyway.

Continue reading " Cows make fuel for biogas train "

 

October 14, 2005

DTI 'damaging' green power sector

Problems with a government grant programme are damaging the UK's renewable power industry.

Continue reading " DTI 'damaging' green power sector "

 

October 6, 2005

Fuel cells 'need political push'

The world must actively push for alternative energy technologies such as fuel cells, says Sir David King, the UK government's chief scientific advisor.

Continue reading " Fuel cells 'need political push' "

 

October 5, 2005

UK to decide on Sakhalin funding

A $20bn oil and gas project in Russia faces a crucial funding decision amid running concerns over its effect on the endangered western Pacific gray whale.

Continue reading " UK to decide on Sakhalin funding "

 

October 3, 2005

Blair makes renewables lobby nervous

A few short months ago the future looked bright for UK renewables as Tony Blair pushed the global importance of tackling climate change in the build up to the high profile G8 gathering.

Continue reading " Blair makes renewables lobby nervous "

 

September 30, 2005

Nuclear sites could be privatised

Nuclear power sites across the UK could be privatised after reports of a decision to sell parts of the industry.

Continue reading " Nuclear sites could be privatised "

 

September 26, 2005

Microgrids as peer-to-peer energy

Small networks of power generators in "microgrids" could transform the electricity network in the way that the net changed distributed communication.

Continue reading " Microgrids as peer-to-peer energy "

 

September 19, 2005

Opec to discuss extra oil output

Oil-producing nations in the Opec cartel meet in Vienna on Monday ready to increase output by 500,000 barrels per day, following political pressure.

Continue reading " Opec to discuss extra oil output "

 

September 16, 2005

Green energy costs 'extra £1bn'

Taxpayers could be paying an extra billion pounds a year to subsidise green energy projects like wind farms, according to a group of MPs.

Continue reading " Green energy costs 'extra £1bn' "

 

September 15, 2005

Oil giants set sights on Sakhalin

Oil giants are banking on Sakhalin in the hunt for reserves
Hurricane Katrina has focused attention on the need to find new supplies of energy.

Continue reading " Oil giants set sights on Sakhalin "

 

September 8, 2005

Tall grasses set to power Europe

The fields of Europe could soon take on a shimmering silver colour as farmers grow giant grasses to try to mitigate the effects of global warming.

Continue reading " Tall grasses set to power Europe "

 

September 5, 2005

UK, China in cleaner power plan

Britain and the EU will next week announce plans to hand China the technology for a power station designed to combat climate change.

Continue reading " UK, China in cleaner power plan "

 

August 29, 2005

Putin speaks up for far east pipeline

President Vladimir Putin has defended Russia's planned 1.6mn b/d far east crude pipeline, which has been coming under increasing fire over environmental concerns.

Continue reading " Putin speaks up for far east pipeline "

 

August 15, 2005

Shell puts controversial Corrib pipeline on hold

Energy giant Shell has agreed to hold off development of an Irish gas pipeline while it tries to woo the vehemently-opposed communities living alongside the proposed line.

Continue reading " Shell puts controversial Corrib pipeline on hold "

 

August 11, 2005

Nuclear clean-up cost up to £56bn

Decommissioning the UK's ageing nuclear power stations will cost billions of pounds more than originally expected.

Continue reading " Nuclear clean-up cost up to £56bn "

 

Oil prices return to record highs

Refinery stoppages and security fears are sending oil prices soaring, topping $65 a barrel for the first time.

Continue reading " Oil prices return to record highs "

 

August 9, 2005

Bush hails 'landmark' energy law

US President George W Bush has finally signed into law a $14.5bn (£8.1bn) energy bill, after a four-year battle.

Continue reading " Bush hails 'landmark' energy law "

 

UK petrol prices hit new record

The average price of unleaded petrol in the UK has risen above 90p a litre for the first time.

Continue reading " UK petrol prices hit new record "

 

August 2, 2005

Market jitters drive oil over $62

Oil prices have hit new records after the death of Saudi Arabia's king and amid concerns over refineries and Iran.

Continue reading " Market jitters drive oil over $62 "

 

July 28, 2005

Town hall wind turbines planned

Wind turbines could soon be installed on the roof of a council building in north London if plans are approved.

Continue reading " Town hall wind turbines planned "

 

July 11, 2005

Energy efficiency can only be achieved if we enforce the law

All new homes are expected to meet basic energy efficiency standards. But, as Andrew Warren of the Association for the Conservation of Energy reports, nearly half of all builders are breaking the law and failing to meet basic requirements.

Continue reading " Energy efficiency can only be achieved if we enforce the law "

 

July 6, 2005

Fuel duty increase delayed again

The increase in UK fuel duty due in September is being postponed again, the government has announced.

Continue reading " Fuel duty increase delayed again "

 

July 4, 2005

First hydrogen plane tested in US

A US company says it has successfully completed test flights of a potentially environment-friendly aircraft powered by liquid hydrogen.

Continue reading " First hydrogen plane tested in US "

 

July 1, 2005

'Clean energy' power station move

The world's first industrial-scale clean energy power plant to generate "carbon-free" electricity from hydrogen could be built in Aberdeenshire.

Continue reading " 'Clean energy' power station move "

 

Oil prices 'drive US action on climate'

The environment itself is not the burning issue at the White House - but the price of gas is.

Continue reading " Oil prices 'drive US action on climate' "

 

June 30, 2005

Council backs huge wind farm plan

Plans to build the largest onshore wind farm in Europe have been approved by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar (Western Isles Council).

Continue reading " Council backs huge wind farm plan "

 

June 29, 2005

Cost of nuclear 'underestimated'

The cost of new nuclear power has been underestimated by a factor of three, according to a British think tank.

Continue reading " Cost of nuclear 'underestimated' "

 

June 28, 2005

Oil prices stuck above $60 mark

Oil prices are continuing to hover close to their record level of $60.95 as concerns about supply persist.

Continue reading " Oil prices stuck above $60 mark "

 

France gets nuclear fusion plant

France has been awarded a project to build a 10bn-euro ($12bn) nuclear fusion reactor, in the face of strong competition from Japan.

Continue reading " France gets nuclear fusion plant "

 

Fusion centre decision 'imminent'

A long wrangle over the location of a 10bn-euro nuclear fusion reactor could be resolved on Tuesday, with the EU expected to get the nod over Japan.

Continue reading " Fusion centre decision 'imminent' "

 

June 27, 2005

Oil prices surge to record level

Oil prices have continued to climb on Monday, surging to a record on concerns that demand will outstrip supply.

Continue reading " Oil prices surge to record level "

 

June 24, 2005

Self-sufficiency - at what price?

Adding a turbine to solar panels can help attain self-sufficiency
The good news - you do not have to live in a palace built of solar panels and crowned with wind turbines to generate enough power to boil an egg.

Continue reading " Self-sufficiency - at what price? "

 

June 20, 2005

Nigeria worry fuels new oil spike

Crude oil prices rose to a new high of more than $59 a barrel on Monday as the market was disturbed by threats to western consulates in Nigeria.

Continue reading " Nigeria worry fuels new oil spike "

 

June 15, 2005

Opec agrees higher output levels

Opec members meeting in Vienna have agreed to lift the cartel's daily output limits by 500,000 barrels to 28 million barrels a day.

Continue reading " Opec agrees higher output levels "

 

June 14, 2005

Nuclear waste sites list revealed

Five sites in Scotland which were considered for dumping nuclear waste, have been publicly unveiled for the first time.

Continue reading " Nuclear waste sites list revealed "

 

June 10, 2005

Oil prices rise on hurricane fear

Crude oil prices topped $54 a barrel on Thursday as the first storm of the Caribbean hurricane season headed for oil fields in the Gulf of Mexico.

Continue reading " Oil prices rise on hurricane fear "

 

June 8, 2005

Wind farms pose low risk to birds

Migrating birds are unlikely to be seriously affected by offshore wind farms, according to a study.

Continue reading " Wind farms pose low risk to birds "

 

June 7, 2005

Plan for massive Thames wind farm

Plans have been submitted to build one of the world's biggest wind farms, which could generate enough electricity to supply a quarter of London homes.

Continue reading " Plan for massive Thames wind farm "

 

May 25, 2005

Region's first wind farm proposed

Plans have been drawn up to build the first wind farm in the West Midlands on the site of a former colliery.

Continue reading " Region's first wind farm proposed "

 

Caspian oil pipeline set to open

Oil is set to begin flowing from the Caspian Sea direct to the Mediterranean for the first time.

Continue reading " Caspian oil pipeline set to open "

 

May 19, 2005

Wind farms 'must take root in UK'

Wind power must be made to work in the UK in order to combat climate change, a report by the Sustainable Development Commission (SDC) has said.

Continue reading " Wind farms 'must take root in UK' "

 

May 11, 2005

Experts seek clean, green power

Scientists are due to take part in a brainstorming session to seek the future's clean, green energy sources.

Continue reading " Experts seek clean, green power "

 

May 9, 2005

Iraq promises to boost oil output

Iraq is hoping to boost its oil exports back to the levels of a year ago in order to re-assert its role in oil cartel Opec, its new oil minister says.

Continue reading " Iraq promises to boost oil output "

 

May 6, 2005

Caspian oil set for fast flow to the West

As growing concerns about dwindling global reserves help maintain oil prices close to the $50 a barrel mark, a major supply route linking newly developed oil and gas fields in the Caspian Sea with western markets is due to be opened.

Continue reading " Caspian oil set for fast flow to the West "

 

May 4, 2005

Nuclear power could be cheaper low carbon alternative than renewables

Nuclear power could be the cheaper option for producing future UK energy needs while meeting greenhouse gas reduction targets, a report has found.

Continue reading " Nuclear power could be cheaper low carbon alternative than renewables "

 

April 29, 2005

Higher oil prices hit US growth

The US economy expanded at its slowest pace in two years in the first three months of 2005, official figures show.

Continue reading " Higher oil prices hit US growth "

 

April 27, 2005

UK will lose top spot for renewables if offshore finance fails

The UK and Spain continue to vie for top spot as the world's most attractive national environments for renewable energy investment, according to the latest quarterly Ernst & Young index.

Continue reading " UK will lose top spot for renewables if offshore finance fails "

 

April 25, 2005

Blair 'to debate nuclear power'

A re-elected Labour government would put nuclear power back on the agenda in an effort to meet targets on climate change, government sources have said.

Continue reading " Blair 'to debate nuclear power' "

 

April 20, 2005

Parties will not lead on nuclear

None of the UK's three main parties will take the lead in the debate on building new nuclear power stations.

Continue reading " Parties will not lead on nuclear "

 

April 13, 2005

Norway could provide 20 per cent of UK gas supply in new deal

Norway could provide up to 20% of the UK's future gas demand in a new deal signed this week by UK Energy Minister Mike O'Brien and Norwegian Oil and Energy Minister Thorhild Widvey.

Continue reading " Norway could provide 20 per cent of UK gas supply in new deal "

 

Groups call for EU "green heat" legislation

A coalition of 40 renewable energy and environmental groups from around the EU has demanded a new directive to require at least 25% of heating and cooling to come from renewable sources by 2020. The law must also include differentiated, legally binding national targets, it said.

Continue reading " Groups call for EU "green heat" legislation "

 

April 12, 2005

Defra millions boost business' waste and energy efficiency

An initiative worth £284 million that will help businesses manage their resources and reduce their waste more efficiently was launched last week by Environment Minister Elliot Morley.

Continue reading " Defra millions boost business' waste and energy efficiency "

 

April 11, 2005

Clean Energy Expo in London

The first Clean Energy & Technology Expo (CETEX) will take place at the London Business Design Centre in Islington on 5th-7th May.

Continue reading " Clean Energy Expo in London "

 

Agricultural waste could end US oil dependency

American farmers and industry could soon team up to produce 50 billion gallons of cellulosic ethanol a year, dramatically reducing US dependence on oil imported from the volatile Middle East, a Republican advocate for biofuels has stated.

Continue reading " Agricultural waste could end US oil dependency "

 

April 4, 2005

Warning on nuclear waste disposal

Proposals to send Britain's nuclear waste into space or to the bottom of the sea are impractical, a government advisory committee has warned.

Continue reading " Warning on nuclear waste disposal "

 

March 29, 2005

Dollar's rebound trims oil price

A rebound in the value of the US dollar has helped oil prices to retreat from recent highs.

Continue reading " Dollar's rebound trims oil price "

 

March 18, 2005

Senate backs Alaska oil drilling

The US Senate has voted to allow a plan that opens up a remote wildlife refuge in the northern state of Alaska to oil drilling.

Continue reading " Senate backs Alaska oil drilling "

 

March 17, 2005

Oil prices surge to fresh highs

Crude oil prices set new records on Thursday despite a commitment to boost output quotas from the Opec oil producers' cartel a day earlier.

Continue reading " Oil prices surge to fresh highs "

 

March 16, 2005

Turbines approved amid criticism

Plans to build four new wind turbines in Norfolk are going ahead, despite objections by local residents.

Continue reading " Turbines approved amid criticism "

 

Oil eases ahead of Opec meeting

Oil prices have dipped slightly ahead of Wednesday's crucial Opec meeting at which the organisation will discuss an increase in production quotas.

Continue reading " Oil eases ahead of Opec meeting "

 

March 15, 2005

Talks push for alternative fuels

Environment and energy ministers from 20 countries are meeting in the UK to discuss climate change and how to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Continue reading " Talks push for alternative fuels "

 

March 10, 2005

Oil price lingers near new high

The price of crude oil has stayed close to its record high as fears about supply continue and the dollar weakens.

Continue reading " Oil price lingers near new high "

 

China's global hunt for oil

China's craving for oil to drive its industrial boom and, to a lesser extent, satisfy its love affair with the motorcar, has helped to push up global crude oil prices.

Continue reading " China's global hunt for oil "

 

February 26, 2005

Anti-wind farm report dismissed

A report from the world's biggest wind power producer denouncing wind farms as too expensive and inefficient has been widely dismissed in the UK.

Continue reading " Anti-wind farm report dismissed "

 

February 25, 2005

Germany split over green energy

Germany's ambitious plan to phase out nuclear power by 2020 while also reducing its reliance on fossil fuels has made it a leader in efforts to fulfil the Kyoto protocol.

Continue reading " Germany split over green energy "

 

Yukos loses US bankruptcy battle

A judge has dismissed an attempt by Russian oil giant Yukos to gain bankruptcy protection in the US.

Yukos filed for Chapter 11 protection in Houston in an unsuccessful attempt to halt the auction of its Yugansk division by the Russian authorities.

Continue reading " Yukos loses US bankruptcy battle "

 

February 11, 2005

Strong demand triggers oil rally

Crude oil prices surged back above the $47 a barrel mark on Thursday after an energy market watchdog raised its forecasts for global demand.

Continue reading " Strong demand triggers oil rally "

 

Green energy to 'cost consumers'

Consumers face a 5% rise in electricity bills by the end of the decade to help meet government targets on renewable energy, an official report says.

Continue reading " Green energy to 'cost consumers' "

 

February 8, 2005

France to privatise energy firms

The French government has announced plans to partially privatise three major energy firms and a road operator.

Continue reading " France to privatise energy firms "

 

Bumper oil prices lift BP profits

Oil giant BP has announced a 26% rise in annual profits to $16.2bn (£8.7bn) on the back of record oil prices.

Continue reading " Bumper oil prices lift BP profits "

 

February 3, 2005

Where now for the oil industry?

Judging by recent results from energy giants, oil really can be called black gold again.

Continue reading " Where now for the oil industry? "

 

Shell pumps out record UK profit

Soaring oil prices last year have helped Shell report a record annual profit for a UK-listed company.

Continue reading " Shell pumps out record UK profit "

 

January 31, 2005

Britain is top spot worldwide for renewable investment

Britain has gained the overall top spot as the most attractive national environment for renewable energy investment according to the latest Ernst & Young 'Renewable Energy Country Attractiveness Indices.

Continue reading " Britain is top spot worldwide for renewable investment "

 

January 29, 2005

New energy buoy will record waves

A pioneering project to harness wave power off the coast of north Cornwall is being monitored by scientists around the world.

Continue reading " New energy buoy will record waves "

 

January 25, 2005

Energy prices under the spotlight

A committee of MPs will on Tuesday quiz energy bosses about rising prices and how increases are affecting customers.

Continue reading " Energy prices under the spotlight "

 

January 20, 2005

China suspends 26 power projects

China has ordered a halt to construction work on 26 big power stations, including two at the Three Gorges Dam, on environmental grounds.

Continue reading " China suspends 26 power projects "

 

January 18, 2005

Cold weather fuels oil price rise

Crude oil prices have risen to a seven- week high of more than $49 a barrel as fuel demand is set to tested by cold weather across parts of the US.

Continue reading " Cold weather fuels oil price rise "

 

January 10, 2005

Blackouts could spark £12m fine

National Grid, the firm in charge of supplying electricity to England and Wales, could face fines of up to £12m a year in the event of major power cuts.

Continue reading " Blackouts could spark £12m fine "

 

December 15, 2004

UK to keep foreign nuclear waste

The Government has decided to bury Japanese, German, Italian, Spanish, Swiss and Swedish nuclear waste in Britain as a money-making venture to help pay for the UK's own unresolved nuclear waste problems.

Continue reading " UK to keep foreign nuclear waste "

 

December 6, 2004

Tidal waters could help power UK

A tidal power expert believes the sea around Guernsey could hold enough energy to meet a third of the UK's needs.

Continue reading " Tidal waters could help power UK "

 

November 26, 2004

EU gets tough on fusion reactor

European research ministers say they are ready to press ahead with the Iter nuclear fusion project even if it means losing Japanese support.

Continue reading " EU gets tough on fusion reactor "

 

November 22, 2004

Campaign to cut UK energy bills

UK consumers could save £1bn a year on energy bills by switching supplier and installing better efficiency measures, the government has estimated.

Continue reading " Campaign to cut UK energy bills "

 

November 9, 2004

EU confident over fusion project

Europe could be about to win the race to host Iter, the world's biggest nuclear fusion reactor.

Continue reading " EU confident over fusion project "

 

October 27, 2004

Green taxes 'would hit poor most'

Poor families would be hardest hit by "green" taxes designed to protect the environment, research suggests.

Continue reading " Green taxes 'would hit poor most' "

 

October 21, 2004

Offshore wind power could mean tens of thousands of new jobs

The development of offshore wind power in could create up to 76,000 jobs in the UK, according to a new report.

Continue reading " Offshore wind power could mean tens of thousands of new jobs "

 

October 18, 2004

UK chemists seek hydrogen store

UK scientists think they have taken a major step forward in making hydrogen a practical replacement for petrol.

Continue reading " UK chemists seek hydrogen store "

 

UK boost for biomass fuel crops

The UK is to encourage the production of biomass, crops grown specially for use as environmentally-friendly fuels.

Continue reading " UK boost for biomass fuel crops "

 

October 14, 2004

BT gets behind renewable energy

British Telecom has announced a three-year plan to get all of its energy needs from renewable sources - the biggest such project in the world.

Continue reading " BT gets behind renewable energy "

 

October 12, 2004

Wind farm inquiry hears evidence

Plans for what has been described as the largest wind turbine power station in lowland England are being considered by a government planning inspector.

Continue reading " Wind farm inquiry hears evidence "

 

October 8, 2004

Oil prices ease in Asian trade

Oil prices have retreated from Thursday's $53-a-barrel high overnight in Asia.

Continue reading " Oil prices ease in Asian trade "

 

October 7, 2004

Oil price sets new record in Asia

US crude oil prices have risen to yet another record high in overnight trade, amid worries over possible global supply shortages.

Continue reading " Oil price sets new record in Asia "

 

October 4, 2004

Expert sets five-year deadline for nuclear decision

Ministers will have to take a decision within five years on whether to build new nuclear power stations if Britain is to reach its targets for cutting greenhouse gases, the Government's Chief Scientific Adviser has cautioned.

Continue reading " Expert sets five-year deadline for nuclear decision "

 

September 21, 2004

Looking to the hydrogen horizon

Demand for oil is soaring, and with it the price - currently $46 a barrel. Discoveries of new reserves are getting thinner and the cost of production is rising, especially in the older fields

Some believe we are reaching the beginning of the end of the oil epoch. But, they say, hydrogen cars could offer a route out of the problem.

Continue reading " Looking to the hydrogen horizon "

 

September 20, 2004

Britons 'in favour of wind farms'

Three-quarters of Britons believe wind farms are necessary to help meet the energy demand, a survey by the British Wind Energy Association suggests.

Continue reading " Britons 'in favour of wind farms' "

 

September 18, 2004

The greening of Ground Zero

Skyscrapers that power themselves through wind and solar energy collected on their roofs have been named in the winning designs in a competition aimed at creating a greener modern city.

Continue reading " The greening of Ground Zero "

 

September 15, 2004

UK needs 'more nuclear stations'

Climate change demands Britain consider building new nuclear power plants, says Lord May, the Royal Society president.

The government's former chief scientist told the Daily Telegraph that the UK would struggle to reduce its emissions of carbon dioxide without nuclear.

Continue reading " UK needs 'more nuclear stations' "

 

September 14, 2004

Micropower 'could fuel UK homes'

A mini-power station on the roof of many UK homes will soon be possible and affordable, a British think-tank says.

Continue reading " Micropower 'could fuel UK homes' "

 

September 9, 2004

EC backs off nuclear shutdown

The European Union will have to retain the option of building new nuclear power plants for at least the next 50 years, energy commissioner Loyola de Palacio said yesterday.

Continue reading " EC backs off nuclear shutdown "

 

UK 'green energy' centre created

A new national marine renewable energy centre is to help lay the foundations for an industry based on wave and tidal movements.

Continue reading " UK 'green energy' centre created "

 

September 3, 2004

Solar power sucked into funding 'black hole'

The fledgling British solar industry faces an uncertain future because of a "black hole" in Government support, an environmental group warned today.

Continue reading " Solar power sucked into funding 'black hole' "

 

August 25, 2004

'Heat-proof' glass could save on air-con

A new coating for glass that can keep the heat from the sun out, saving on air-conditioning costs, has been developed by scientists in London.

Continue reading " 'Heat-proof' glass could save on air-con "

 

Why are power prices on the rise?

British Gas is set to increase its prices for the second time this year as it UK energy supplies dwindle and wholesale prices rise ever higher.

Continue reading " Why are power prices on the rise? "

 

August 18, 2004

Whitehall told to cut red tape for wind farms

The Cabinet Office has intervened in the commissioning of offshore wind farms in an attempt to speed up the process.

Continue reading " Whitehall told to cut red tape for wind farms "

 

August 11, 2004

Consultation on a carbon abatement technology strategy for fossil fuels

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has published a consultation paper seeking views on a strategy for carbon abatement technology for fossil fuel power generation which is currently being developed by the DTI’s Cleaner Fossil Fuels Unit.

Continue reading " Consultation on a carbon abatement technology strategy for fossil fuels "

 

August 10, 2004

Councils urged to boost use of green power

Local councils in England will have greater powers to demand that new buildings use a certain amount of green energy, according to new planning policies set out by the Government.

Continue reading " Councils urged to boost use of green power "

 

August 3, 2004

Extra £50m for wave and tidal power

Environmental and renewable energy groups welcomed the Government's decision yesterday to put an extra £50m into the development of wave and tidal power technologies.

Continue reading " Extra £50m for wave and tidal power "

 

July 29, 2004

British Energy rapped for environmental breaches

British Energy, the country's biggest operator of nuclear power stations, breached environmental regulations 21 times during 2003 and has been told that its failures are "unacceptable".

Continue reading " British Energy rapped for environmental breaches "

 

July 28, 2004

Carbon store 'could free UK coal'

The UK could secure its energy supply for many decades if it could use its huge reserves of coal, scientists say.

Continue reading " Carbon store 'could free UK coal' "

 

July 23, 2004

Beijing 'brown-out' to save power

Beijing has experienced its first "brown out" of the year - a partial power cut to save energy as China grapples with soaring electricity demand.

Continue reading " Beijing 'brown-out' to save power "

 

July 22, 2004

States file suit to cut CO2 levels

Eight US states and New York City filed a landmark lawsuit yesterday against five big US power companies, demanding cuts in carbon dioxide emissions and opening a new legal frontier in the fight against global warming.

Continue reading " States file suit to cut CO2 levels "

 

July 21, 2004

Crystal options for nuclear waste

Storing radioactive waste in a safe form is one of the biggest problems facing the nuclear industry.

Continue reading " Crystal options for nuclear waste "

 

July 16, 2004

Museum has flush of inspiration

London's Science Museum could use its toilets to help power its building and cut electricity bills.

Continue reading " Museum has flush of inspiration "

 

July 15, 2004

Renewable energy target unlikely to be met

A House of Lords report suggests that Government plans to produce 10% of Britain's electricity from renewable sources by 2010 are unlikely to be met.

Continue reading " Renewable energy target unlikely to be met "

 

July 9, 2004

First emissions trading plans approved

Plans within the European Union (EU) to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) pollution through "emissions trading" have advanced.

Continue reading " First emissions trading plans approved "

 

July 8, 2004

UK may need more nuclear power plants

The Prime Minister has told a committee of MPs that the only way to meet the UK's promises on tackling climate change may mean it has to opt for nuclear power.

Continue reading " UK may need more nuclear power plants "

 

July 7, 2004

Offshore wind farm given the go-ahead

Welsh Assembly Members have backed a controversial plan for a large wind farm off the south coast of Wales.

Continue reading " Offshore wind farm given the go-ahead "

 

June 27, 2004

Nuclear power can't stop climate change

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) admits that nuclear power can't solve the global warming problem.

Continue reading " Nuclear power can't stop climate change "

 

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