Scottish renewable energy projects had a record-breaking 2012, producing enough power to meet 40.3% of the country’s electricity needs. http://www.energyvoice.com/2013/12/scots-renewables-projects-record-breaking-year-2012/
(Reuters) – Britain’s Energy Bill, which includes a new support mechanism for renewable energy and nuclear plants, was approved by the Queen on Wednesday, meaning it is now law. http://uk.reuters.com/article/2013/12/18/uk-britain-energy-law-idUKBRE9BH0Q720131218
Whilst two-thirds of the British population intellectually accepts the reality of manmade climate change, many deny some or all of the associated feelings and responsibilities needed to deal with the issue, according to a new report. http://blueandgreentomorrow.com/2013/12/18/72-of-britons-say-living-standards-more-important-than-climate-change/
Planning minister says law will be changed so companies do not have to directly notify people about gas drilling in their areas http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2013/dec/18/fracking-allowed-homes-without-owners-knowledge-gas-drilling
A new study shows that in spite of updated designs, U.S. wind turbines are killing hundreds of thousands of birds annually—a number that may balloon to about 1.4 million per year by 2030, when the ongoing industry expansion being encouraged by the federal government is expected to be fully implemented. Read more
Renewable energy developer RES has announced its intention to appeal against Argyll and Bute Council’s refusal for Freasdail Wind Farm. http://wind.energy-business-review.com/news/res-to-appeal-against-argyll-and-bute-councils-decision-to-reject-freasdail-wind-farm-191213-4148789
A £95,000 Scottish Government loan to a controversial Bute wind turbine scheme is set to be written off after the project failed to receive planning permission. http://www.buteman.co.uk/news/local-headlines/anger-as-bute-wind-farm-loan-set-to-be-written-off-1-3239131
New proposals for a substantial wind farm on the south Cowal peninsula, directly north of Rothesay Bay, have been published. http://www.buteman.co.uk/news/local-headlines/turbines-up-to-145m-tall-could-be-built-opposite-rothesay-bay-1-3239150