UK Government Energy Targets Lack Clarity

August 10, 2010

Sentiment from traditional and social media shows energy issues under the spotlight according to corporate reputation analysis specialist Alva in its daily Alva Energy & Utilities In Sight service:

• Industry and climate change organisations have criticised government plans on reducing emissions as ‘too vague’
• July’s review of traditional and social media also identified that future private sector investment in the programme is dependent on Ministers developing a more rigorous policy framework
• Carbon emissions were also high on the issues agenda following the Department of Energy and Climate Change’s £34m cut on low carbon and renewable energy initiatives
• Energy prices were also in the spotlight following British Gas’ announcement of a doubling of profits, but warning of imminent price increases due to the rising cost of wholesale gas
• Ofgem’s report showing 20% of UK households are in debt to energy suppliers raises the spectre of fuel poverty once more and this looks set to be the dominant reputational risk issue for energy companies in the coming months