Solving the UK's coal conundrum - How to keep the lights on while maintaining the government's commitment to reducing plant emissions

摘要

The power cuts which hit the UK in late May, affecting over 500 000 people, were a clear warning that its ageing infrastructure is struggling. The head of one major utility, Dr Paul Golby of E.On UK, said the blackouts were a 'small indication' of what might occur if we do not start building new power stations. Most industry insiders would agree with that assessment, and so does the government. Its latest modelling shows that the UK will need 20-25 GW of new power by 2020. However, the need for new plant which meets future demand and also lowers greenhouse gas and other harmful emissions is sending the estimates for new infrastructure spending into the stratosphere.