Date published: 2007/05/23
The BBC says:
Nuclear power is needed to help reduce carbon emissions and to ensure that the UK has secure energy supplies in the future, Tony Blair has told MPs.
He spoke as the government's Energy White Paper backed a rise in renewable energy and energy efficiency measures.
It also says the "preliminary view" is to for more nuclear plants, with a new consultation launched on its merits.
But critics called the consultation a "farce" and nuclear power would be a "dangerous, dirty white elephant".
Industry Secretary Alistair Darling told MPs a decision on nuclear power was needed by the end of the year because many nuclear and coal-fired power stations are due to close within the next 20 years.
Other key points include:
- Free "real time" displays given on request to show homeowners how much electricity they are using.
- Working with industry to "phase out" inefficient goods such as energy-consuming standby switches.
- Tougher environmental standards for new build homes, and other products.
- Consultation launched on possible sites for new nuclear plants - based on assumption environmental impact is not "significantly different" to other forms of energy generation.
- Triple the amount of electricity from renewable sources such as wind and wave by 2015.
- Set up the world's first carbon trading scheme for large organisations such as banks and government departments.
- Encourage mining of UK coal where it is economically and environmentally appropriate to reduce reliance on exports.
Mr Darling said the measures outlined could save between 22 million and 33 million tonnes of carbon emissions by 2020.
All well trailed well in advance, so nothing new here.
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