BSRIA says it welcomes the key messages in President Obama’s ‘Clean Power Plan’ speech.

The aim of the revised plan is to cut greenhouse gas emissions from US power stations by nearly a third within 15 years.

President Obama unveiled what he called “the biggest, most important step the USA has ever taken” in tackling climate change. The measures will place significant emphasis on wind and solar power and other renewable energy sources. The revised plan will aim to cut carbon emissions from the power sector by 32 per cent by 2030, compared with 2005 levels.

BSRIA chief executive, Julia Evans, said: “We welcome Obama’s position in confronting climate change and cutting greenhouse gas emissions by almost a third within 15 years. BSRIA is clearly in support of this perspective, especially the essential uptake of renewable energy.

“It is evident that Obama’s administration has got a clear direction in which they wish the future US energy market to be heading – which gives me great confidence for both BSRIA, its members and the industry. Such messages will signal huge economic and investor confidence – from a global perspective.”

Ms Evans continued: “The President’s stance flies in the face of the recent UK government announcements where BSRIA is getting the impression that energy and carbon reduction issues are being viewed as a burden to government – which is inhibiting – not only the industry – but the economy at large. The lack of stability in subsidy means industry can’t plan for a ‘green future’.”

The President’s speech is also of interest to BSRIA due to the recent appointment of Raphael Chalogany as its new business development manager in Chicago for its North American Market. This will allow BSRIA to continue to develop its North American presence by strengthening its strategic capabilities.