Environmental legislation news: Tories pledge more funding for renewable energy research

Environmental laboratory

Environmental legislation news: Tories pledge more funding for renewable energy research

18 Nov, 2009

Published over 16 years ago. See the latest and most current information on Environmental laboratory.

Shadow minister for climate change Greg Barker has claimed that a Conservative government would commit to increasing funding levels provided for research into renewable energy sources and technology.

In an interview with Building Sustainable Design, Mr Barker criticised Labour for not putting enough focus on renewable power but explained that his party would do more to encourage the sector.

He said: "We aim to put in place policies that will create a competitive green market and attract private investment, create jobs and provide for innovative research, design and implementation of novel renewable technologies."

Mr Barker added that the introduction of smart meters to UK homes would be a key part of its energy strategy and their use would be utilised to increase the amount of electricity generated from renewable sources.

Acknowledging that other forms of energy generation would need to comprise the energy mix, he stressed that nuclear power would not be viewed as an alternative to the development and expansion of renewables.

Earlier this year, Labour announced its proposals to introduce a low-carbon energy grid to the country through the introduction of smart meters in every home by 2020.

Posted by Claire Manning

IET 36.2 Mar/Apr 2026

Explore our Digital Edition

Discover the latest news and research

Digital edition

Explore Our Other Sites

Labmate Online
Up to half of kidney disease cases remain undiagnosed, Lancet series warns
Explore more Arrow
Pollution Solutions Online
Next-generation reverse osmosis membranes for more efficient and cost-effective seawater desalination
Explore more Arrow
Petro Online
SAF shortfall puts fuel testing and blending control under pressure
Explore more Arrow
Chromatography Today
Chromatography and XFEL imaging reveal critical point behind water’s behaviour
Explore more Arrow