The Renewable Energy Association has issued a response to the government鈥檚 Renewable Energy Strategy and the Gallagher review into the impact of biofuels production.

Philip Wolfe, director-general of the association, said: 鈥淚f we are to meet our 2020 renewables contribution under the EU鈥檚 Renewable Energy Directive, we need ambitious plans and a holistic approach that brings in all sectors of society 鈥 energy producers and consumers alike. On the Gallagher review, we note that the government has already decided to slow down its renewable transport targets. This has sent a very negative signal to investors.鈥 The association鈥檚 recommendations include:

鈥 introduction of a renewable energy tariff to support those who install renewable heat or power systems mainly for their own use

鈥 extending and streamlining the Renewables Obligation

鈥 stronger incentives for installing energy efficiency measures and renewables into existing buildings

鈥 support for binding EU targets for sustainable transport fuels

鈥 further strengthening of sustainability measures for biomass

鈥 improved grid access for renewables.