European Perspectives on Sustainable Energy Policies [keynote speakers]

Summary form only given, as follows. The talk will begin with a brief review of current developments in the UK energy, ie gas and electricity markets, example the wholesale markets, pricing, the changing fuel mix, attitudes toward the role of nuclear, security of supply issues, renewables etc. There will be an overview of the development of emissions trading in the European Union, highlighting the problems and achievements to date of the scheme, and updating on carbon price trends. Mention of the G8 Gleneagles Communique on climate change, energy and sustainable development. There will be an update on the status of coal, clean coal technologies and carbon capture and sequestration. Where there is interest, issues arising from the "better regulation" agenda would be discussed. The main thrust of the presentation will be a discussion of the conclusions for energy policy of UK/EU experience - how to reconcile the tensions between the need for security of supply, care for the environment and competitiveness.