Energy Strategy
North East England is developing photovoltaics through a number of strategic drivers ranging from innovation through to building design. The region has also developed a spatial planning 'Energy Strategy' as part of our contribution to meeting national targets for the percentage of UK energy demand to be met from clean sources.
The Regional Economic Strategy sets out that New and Renewable Energy is one of five key technology areas of focus in North East England. Photovoltaics are seen as a specific opportunity based on our research and industrial strengths.
This focused approach was developed following a detailed analysis of the research base and identification of excellence in areas with opportunities for North East companies to exploit that knowledge. This work developed into the Strategy for Success programme, which includes the development of five Centres of Excellence and NStar, a provider of early stage venture capital. An integral part of the Strategy for Success is the Energy & Environment 'Pillar', which provides a focus into the development of energy research and technology commercialisation.
The spatial strategy work, culminating in an Energy Strategy for the region, was directed by the North East Renewable Energy Group, which brings together a wide range of stakeholders from industry, local authorities, the region’s universities, environmental groups, Government agencies and the North East Assembly.
The strategy recognises that the percentage contribution of electricity supply from PV will remain small in the period to 2010, but nevertheless has set a target of between 2 and 6 MW to be installed in the region. The strategy expects that a major expansion of PV installations in the region will take place between 2010 and 2020 as prices continue to fall and points out that 20,000 roofs could easily be accommodated in the region.
North East Regional Renewable Energy Strategy - July 2003 [pdf]
(1.07 MB)
North East Regional Renewable Energy Strategy - March 2005 [pdf]
(1.17 MB)
North East Regional Renewable Energy Strategy - Nov 2005 [pdf]
(730 KB)
