Renewable Energy - Everyone should ''consider microgeneration''

30/01/2008

Microgeneration has a major role to play in the reduction of carbon emissions, an environmental expert said today.

The Scottish government yesterday launched a consultation on proposals for a climate change bill, the most eye-catching of which is a statutory target to cut the nation's emissions by 80 per cent by 2050.

John Swinney, cabinet secretary for finance and sustainable growth, said government organisations and businesses had large roles to play in hitting the target, but that it could not be achieved without input from the Scottish population.

One way people can contribute is by considering installing renewable energy sources such as solar panels, wind turbines and underground heat systems in their homes, according to Jason Ormiston of Scottish Renewables.

"Everyone has a responsibility at home to consider whether they can use microgeneration," he told the Scotsman.

Mr Ormiston added that work had to be done to make installing such equipment simpler, adding: "It should be as easy to buy a solar panel as it is to buy a flat-screen TV."