Why do we need offshore windfarms?
Meet energy demands, fuel supply insecurity.
The future of fossil fuel reserves (oil, gas, coal) is insecure,
as it is recognised that energy demand is likely to soon exceed
fuel supply. Some predict that resources will not be able to meet
current and increasing demand in the next 50 years.
Diversity of energy supply is therefore essential. Renewable energy
will make a large contribution to this energy supply mix. Britain
has 1% of the world’s population and consumes approximately
2% of its energy with gas quickly becoming the UK’s principal
energy sources. It is estimated that gas could provide 70% or more
of the UK's electricity by 2020. This is not only because it has
been cheap and easy to obtain, but also because it is not clear
that alternative fuels will be available.
However, the annual UK gas demand is predicted to exceed production
capacity by 2005, increasing dependency on gas imports. The primary
sources of UK gas imports are expected to be Norway, the Netherlands,
Russia, Libya and the Middle East.Relying on fuel imports advocates
energy insecurity.
Recent difficulties in the Middle East, the embargo on Iraq and
uncertainties regarding developments in Libya and Iran put a secure
oil and gas supply at risk.Importing energy and fuel also leads
to market dependence and possible price increases. Securing UK sources
of renewable energy from technologies such as offshore wind energy
is therefore essential to ensure future fuel security in this country.
For more information see:http://europa.en.int/comm/energy_transport/doc-principal/pubfinal_en.pdf |