Alternative Energy is a Must for Business in the Future

Alternative Energy is a Must for Business in the Future

Jul 05 - Birmingham Post; Birmingham (UK)

The use of wind and solar power as well as biofuels is needed to combat climate change in the West Midlands, an energy strategy for the region has indicated.

Organisations must make the most of business opportunities in reducing greenhouse gases, by reducing dependency on traditional energy sources such as oil and gas and supplying new types of technology, the report says.

The draft report, published by Advantage West Midlands, the Government Office for the West Midlands, local authorities and energy experts, proposes a more efficient consumption of energy, combined with a shift to more sustainable forms of energy production.

Covering the period to 2020, the report also reveals how the region will contribute to hitting Government targets for reducing emissions of greenhouse gases, set out in the 2003 Energy White Paper.

Energy use is the main source of man-made greenhouse gases, which are widely agreed to be the main contributor to global climate change.

The strategy sets out plans for using energy more efficiently and increasing the use of energy from renewable sources such as wind, solar, and biofuels, which are cleaner than fossil fuels.

It also proposes the need to raise awareness of energy issues, and for promoting the interests of the region when decisions are made at national level.

Bransby Thomas, chairman of the regional assembly, said: 'Current predictions about the consequences of global warming highlight the need for more efficient use of energy, and for a greater proportion of our energy supply to come from sources that do not harm the environment.

'The West Midlands stands to benefit in several ways from the actions contained in this strategy - savings on fuel bills, adequate and affordable home heating, improved air quality and more secure energy supplies.

'2020 may seem a long way off, but we need to shape policies now that will determine how successful this region will be at adapting to radical changes in both energy supply and usage.'

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