6 Conclusion
85. Medium-scale energy projects
could contribute a significant amount to UK energy supply, but
because DECC policy has focused either on very large or very small
(<5MW) schemes, the evidence to quantify this is not available.
We think there is room for medium-scale projects to contribute
to the UK's energy mix.
86. While the Government has
been explicit about its support for community energy projects,
it has neglected some other options, including projects owned
by local authorities and projects owned by private sector (commercial)
organisations. This means potential for new capacity and new sources
of finance is being missed.
87. There is a need for a comprehensive
package of measures addressing planning, grid access, support
mechanisms, finance and advice. Addressing only one or two of
these issues will not be enough to create the right conditions
for local energy projects to flourish.
88. Joint ventures are beneficial:
community groups benefit by accessing expertise and finance from
commercial partners, and commercial partners benefit from increased
local support. Government should do more to promote this approach
and to provide more central guidance. It is notable that the new
Office of Unconventional Gas and Oil is examining community benefits
from shale gas as a priority, and perhaps such an approach could
be adopted for medium-scale energy projects.
89. In a system geared toward
large-scale generation, medium-sized local energy projects are
struggling to gain a foothold. However, it is these smaller local
schemes that have the best hope of engaging communities, raising
energy awareness and increasing public acceptability of new low-carbon
infrastructure. The Government must do more to encourage medium-sized
projects, particularly in the 10-50 MW range, if we are to realise
the full benefits and potential of local energy.
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