It seems that after a long time having to prove and justify itself, the renewables industry is on the verge of a major breakthrough. With RWE Generation announcing plans to take out 1,000MW of coal-generated power supply in Germany over the next three years in the face of "the continued expansion of renewables", UBS bank has come to a similar conclusion it seems. In a briefing paper to clients, UBS find that centralised power stations will soon become extinct because they are too big and inflexible, and are "not relevant" for future electricity generation. An endorsement for market investment in renewables if ever one were needed. Not that one is needed in the Humber, of course, as the huge investment taking place right now across the Humber in manufacturing, operations and maintenance sectors demonstrates. On the ground, RenewablesUK reported that 22% of the UK's energy came from renewables on the 17th August. Not quite the 55% experienced in Spain throughout July but still a hefty contribution. Wind and solar power used to be scoffed at for only being useful when the wind blows or the sun shines. As far as the renewables sector in concerned, it certainly seems like the sun is shining! | Sources: "Big power out, solar in: UBS urges investors to join renewables revolution", edie.net, 28/ 08/14 "Renewables fuel European economies and force power generators into rethink", environmentalistonline.com, 18/08/14 Credits: "Solar panels and wind turbine" from freedigitalphotos.net by Anusorn P nachol Get in touch with Kapaciti to find out how we can support you in developing your environmental or business strategy. Kapaciti is here to help you make informed decisions bringing together research, consultation and the latest industry analysis. We're only a call or click away. |
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