Build up to the Budget 2009
Will this be a Budget for the Environment?
One of the politcial messages that we've heard in response to the global recession is that we need to build a low carbon economy. The G20 Leaders communique included a promise to build an inclusive, green, and sustainable recovery.
It's now clear that this year's Budget stunt revolves around electric cars. The Government plans to make £250 million available over 5 years to support electric motoring. Part of the money will be spent on installing electric recharging points in the street and there will also be a subsidy of up to £5,000 towards the purchase cost of an electric car. Building some infrastructure is needed - but it will be several years before electric cars are more readily available. Even then, it's expected that they will cost substantially more than petrol/diesel cars. The subsidy won't plug the gap.
Unfortunately, it's not thought that the Government will announce help for renewable energy generation. The Carbon Trust has put forward four suggestions that would make a big difference - including support for offshore wind generation.
