The Energy Sector: Delivering a new energy future

REGULATORY support in the energy sector is essential for technologies with market leading potential to take advantage of the opportunities offered.

The technologies are available to meet the growing energy demands of consumers and industry and the targets for reducing the impact of energy generation on the environment are clear.

But that does not mean that the path that will see the transformation of the country’s energy provision is a clear one, according to experts.

In-depth analysis on this subject, and other key issues the energy sector, can be read in the supplement, in association with law firm Addleshaw Goddard, which is available to download.

Despite the significant rises in energy prices in recent years, newer technologies remain at a commercial disadvantage and will continue to need regulatory support for many years to come.

How that support is structured and which technologies it will underpin is a source of major debate both within the energy industry and with the Government as Ministers prepare to publish a White Paper on the future of the electricity market and set support levels for renewables from 2013 onwards.

“The most important thing is to give certainty to investors and to the energy industry in the forthcoming Energy White Paper,” says John Cridland, director-general of the CBI.

“We don’t want a White Paper heavy on promises of round-table meetings and departmental listening exercises but light on the boldness and certainty that is required.”

Other issues explored in the supplement include an assessment of the region’s future energy needs; how Yorkshire is leading the way with new innovations in the energy sector; and a round table discussion on the opportunities in this region.