Short-sighted energy policy could destroy UK manufacturing say experts

A panel of manufacturers and industry experts warned of widespread power shortages after 2015 as a third of coal fired power stations shutdown. Ministers were accused of failing to invest in adequate replacements because of fears over making an unpopular decision on nuclear energy by delegates. They're inaction means energy bills will be at the mercy of international suppliers and the soaring prices revealed in the WM Energy Report will become a familiar sight, the panel claimed. Haydn Pike, site head of Engineering, Norgine said: "Where's the energy going to come from in ten years time? None of the political parties are prepared to say look it's a ten year investment and a 30 year payback." EIC managing director Simon Butterfield added: "Until 2015 we're adequately supplied, but after that everything is going to start falling over. To have something ready for 2015 we ought to have built it several years ago." Attendees urged the government to declare its energy strategy to ease immediate concerns. The proposal should include a commitment to nuclear energy according to the panel. National energy policy must became an apolitical decision, attendees advised. For more on the WM Energy roundtable see our April issue.