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Guernsey will get the vast majority of its energy from clean, low carbon sources and become carbon neutral by 2050 at the latest, after the States committed to a long-term energy policy.
The States of Guernsey Energy Policy, led by Environment & Infrastructure, has committed to emissions and renewable energy targets and is viewed as a "key milestone"on the way to delivering the Climate Change Action Plan.
The Committee's vision for the future of local energy supplies will see a transition towards decarbonisation and an alignment with global efforts to reduce emissions.
"By 2050 at the latest, the vast majority of Guernsey’s energy supplies will come from clean, low carbon sources and residual emissions will be offset," E&I set out.
"Energy will be used wisely, so as not to waste precious resources. Conscientious use of on-island natural resources will safeguard our healthy environment and clean air, whilst protecting Guernsey’s unique surroundings, biodiversity, and natural beauty.
The States have endorsed the islands Energy Policy 2020-2050 it’s an important keystone on the way to delivering the Climate Change Action Plan.
— Barry Brehaut. (@BrehautBarry) June 4, 2020
"Generation of on-island renewable, clean, affordable energy is supported by implementation of the Energy Policy and will provide value and choice for everybody and will play its part in helping Guernsey to mitigate climate change.
"Guernsey’s energy supply will be resilient and secure, as well as sustainable, to meet reasonable demands for energy. Guernsey will be aligned with global efforts to reduce emissions and development of renewable technologies."
As part of the proposals, Guernsey Electricity has been asked to conduct a full business case on the creation of a second direct energy cable to France, which would be used to import energy from renewable sources.
Pictured: Guernsey Electricity spent £30m on a new electricity cable to France via Jersey last year after the previous underwater link was irreparably damaged.
This comes despite a warning from the States-owned utility's shareholder that the company is tens of millions of pounds in debt and will need to stagger tariff increases across three separate price rises in the next 18 months.
A piece of work will also be done in the next 12 months looking at how to introduce "targeted competition" within the electricity market that will "enable potential additional renewable or low carbon energy operators".
The full proposals were all approved by the States and can be found HERE.
Pictured top: E&I Committee Member Shane Langlois and President Barry Brehaut.
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