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South West Observatory





SW Observatory Environment module


Last update:

10th October 2007

Quick links:

State of the South West 2007

State of the Env ironment in the South West

Regional strategy for the South West's environment

Introduction & background

Energy & it's impact on the environment

Creating a low carbon economy

Low carbon economy in the SW

Fuel poverty

Energy consumption

Domestic electricity & gas consumption in the South West

Industry & commerce electricity & gas consumption

Energy Review 2006 - key outcomes

Carbon dioxide

Climate change

Industry

Renewable energy

What you can do for the environment

Useful websites

DTI energy

Government Office for the SW - energy

Low Carbon South West

Defra emissions of CO2 for local authority areas

Regen SW

DTI renewable energy

South West Climate Change Impacts Partnership

Government Office for the SW - fuel poverty

Centre for Sustainable Energy - fuel poverty indicator

Warm Front Team


Energy

What's new on this page...

Introduction & background

Energy White Paper 2007Greater energy efficiency and a secure, low carbon energy mix for the long-term are at the centre of the Energy White Paper published by Trade and Industry Secretary Alistair Darling on the 23rd May.

The Energy White Paper sets out a long term framework for action to address the challenges of climate change and maintaining stable & affordable energy supply in an increasingly unstable world - both at home and abroad.

Announcements in the White Paper include:

  • A requirement for new meters to come with a real-time display from 2008 and a short term offer of free displays from energy suppliers for households to 2010. In addition, the Government is encouraging the introduction of smart meters, also with displays, in the household sector and for small firms and expects everyone to have a smart meter within 10 years, whilst requiring smart meters for all but the smallest of businesses in the next five years.
  • A consultation setting out how the energy efficiency of consumer electronics will need to improve is published.
  • A consultation to double energy suppliers’ current obligation to deliver energy efficiency measures to customers through a new ‘Carbon Emission Reduction Target’.
  • A cap and trade ‘Carbon Reduction Commitment’ for large commercial organisations such as banks, supermarkets and large local authorities.
  • A ‘Distributed Generation’ Report is published including simplification of energy market and licensing arrangements for localised energy by the end of 2008 and clearer export tariffs from all six major energy suppliers for microgenerators to sell excess electricity.
  • Legislation to band the Renewables Obligation to benefit offshore wind, wave, tidal and other emerging technologies. The cap on the amount of co-firing generation qualifying for support will be removed.
  • Publication of a Biomass Strategy as well as a response to ‘ Creating Value from Renewable Materials’ – a 2 year progress report on the Strategy for Non – Food Crops and Uses.
  • Detail on the competition announced in the Budget to build the world’s first end-to-end Carbon Capture and Storage plant, which will deliver at least 300MW capacity, 90% CO2 saving, and be up and running between 2011 and 2014.
  • Legislation to allow the storage of natural gas under the seabed and unloading of Liquefied Natural Gas at sea.
  • A three month deadline within which DTI will make consent decisions on large scale energy projects, pending more radical reforms set out in the Planning White Paper.
  • A new energy market information and analysis service from this autumn.
  • A Low Carbon Transport Innovation Strategy is published backed by funding of £20m for public procurement of low carbon vehicles, an up to £30m R&D ‘Innovation Platform’ and £5m additional funding for the Energy Technologies Institute.

What this means for the South West:

According to the South West Regional Development Agency, the Energy White Paper should help to reinforce South West England's growing reputation as a centre of excellence for renewable energy and sustainable development.

According to the Energy White Paper, Hinkley Point (Somerset) is the best place to build a new nuclear power station. The report lists 14 suitable sites around the UK but says existing nuclear plants in Southern England are the best choice.

The government stressed the report was a "discussion paper only". It was produced by independent consultants in April 2006 for the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), which published it earlier as a supporting document to its energy White Paper. The government is planning its own investigation into suitable locations for nuclear reactors, which will be launched in 2008 - if the government decides to back nuclear power.

Energy and it's impact on the environment

The threat of climate change and reduced UK oil, gas and coal production are providing a focus for a shift towards becoming a low carbon economy, through energy efficiency and the development of renewable and sustainable energy sources.

Energy - it's impact on the environment & societyThe DTI state in Energy - it's impact on the environment and society (2005) the challenges as:

  • Climate change is already happening and its impacts could, in the longer term, be substantial. They could include many millions more people exposed to hunger, water stress and flooding. There will be irreversible losses of biodiversity.
  • Globally greenhouse gas emissions increased more than four-fold in the last half of the twentieth century and they are still growing. They continue to rise with an increase in carbon dioxide emissions of 16 per cent between 1990 and 2002.
  • In the UK, carbon dioxide emissions fell 4% between 1990 and 2004 despite a 39% increase in GDP.
  • Access to modern energy services is needed for both economic and human development. But there were still 1.6 billion people in the world without electricity in their homes in 2002. Around two-thirds were in Asia and most of the rest in sub-Saharan Africa.
  • Even in the UK, there are still many people who cannot easily afford to heat their homes adequately in winter. There were approximately two million in fuel poverty in the UK in 2003, showing a fall of over two-thirds since 1996.

The Government Office for the South West detail action underway in the South West in terms of energy and environmental management, renewable energy and working towards a low carbon economy.

Our energy future - creating a low carbon economy

Energy White Paper - Creating a low carbon economy The Energy White Paper Our energy future - creating a low carbon economy (2003) marked a radical change to energy policy by combining environmental, security of supply, competitiveness and social goals.

It sets out the challenges faced on the environment, the decline of indigenous energy supplies and the need to update the energy infrastructure as well as describing the policies that need to be pursued over the next twenty years and beyond to meet these challenges. Central to these policies are the four goals for the energy policy:

  1. To put ourselves on a path to cut the UK’s carbon dioxide emissions - the main contributor to global warming - by some 60% by about 2050 with real progress by 2020
  2. To maintain the reliability of energy supplies
  3. To promote competitive markets in the UK and beyond, helping to raise the rate of sustainable economic growth and to improve our productivity
  4. To ensure that every home is adequately and affordably heated

Updates since this White Paper have included the 1st annual report on the implementation of the energy white paper (April 2004), Creating a low carbon economy - second annual report on implementation of the Energy White Paper (July 2005), together with the UK Energy Sector Indicators 2005, the Third Annual Fuel Poverty Report (July 2005) and a new report on Security of Supply.

Towards a low carbon economy in the South West

Low carbon South West website brings together the three key national strategies (Our energy future - creating a low carbon economy, the UK's Climate Change Programme and Securing the Future) and related actions being taken to help move the South West region towards a low carbon future.

Based on experimental statistics for 2003, the South West accounts for about 8% of the UK's CO2 emissions (Defra 2006). For the South West to become a low carbon region it will need to reduce energy waste through energy efficiency and increasingly move away from carbon-based fossil fuels to renewable and less polluting sources of energy.

Energy consumption

Regional and local electricity and gas consumption data was made available for the first time in 2005, based on 2003 statistics. Since then, further experimental data has been released for 2004 and 2005. Comparisons have been made between these years, although there have been significant improvements in data collection and quality.

The following information is for 2005 and from the DTI (2007) unless otherwise stated. Average electricity
consumption is per meter point rather than per household and industrial & commercial consumption is a function of both the number of commercial & industrial sites in areas and the volume of electricity that they use.

Research into forecasting the region’s expected electricity demand in 2020 has looked at two possible scenarios. Assuming the continuation of the government’s climate change programme and energy measures, the region’s energy demand could increase by 15% by 2020. However, if all the savings forecast in the Energy White Paper are met, regional energy demand could decrease by over 11% (GOSW & SW Regional Assembly, 2005).

The growth in new energy-hungry appliances such as flat screen TVs are also responsible for increasing electricity consumption and may be outstripping energy efficiencies in some areas.

The following information has been split into electricity, gas and transport

Electricity use in the South West 2005

Domestic Electricity use in the South West 2005 - summary

Total sales

11,456 GWh

Number of consumers

2,296,000

Average consumption

4,989 kWh

Comparison to 2003 & 2004

(n.b. significant improvements in data collection have been made - comparisons should be used with caution)

The amount of electricity sold was similar to 2003 (11,413 Gwh) and 2004 (11,518 Gwh), however the number of meter points has increased from 2.26 million in 2003 and 2.29 million in 2004.

Average domestic consumption was 8% higher than 2003 (4,600 kWh) and 0.6% lower than in 2004 (5,019 kWh) . This was roughly in line with the national trend.

Regional domestic electricity consumption 2005

 
% of domestic electricity sales in Great Britain according to region 2005

% of electricity sales in Great Britain according to region 2005 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2007)

 
 
 
Average domestic electricity consumption in the regions 2005

Average domestic electricity consumption in the regions 2005 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2007)

As can be seen in the map of average domestic electricity consumption, particular hotspots of high electricity usage can be found in the Isles of Scilly, Restormel, North Cornwall, Kennet, Cotswold and the Forest of Dean.

Plymouth stands out as having the lowest average electricity consumption, followed by Torbay, Exeter, Weymouth & Portland, Poole, Bournemouth, Christchurch, Swindon and Bristol.

In general, average domestic electricity consumption tended to be higher in the more rural districts and lowest in the larger urban areas. Population density, therefore,appears to influence electricity consumption, with large urban areas with the highest population density tending to have the lowest average domestic consumption rates. Rural areas with low population densities generally have low rates of connection to the gas network, helping to explain why they have higher domestic electricity and the lower gas consumption rates.

Annual Average Domestic Electricity Consumption in 2005 (kWh) per meter point

Map showing average domestic electricity consumption in 2006 click to enlarge (DTI website)

DTI, 2007

 

 

 

A total of 11,456 GWh of electricity was sold to just under 2.3 million domestic consumers and 15,812 GWh sold to 252,000 industrial & commercial consumers in 2005.

A total of 11,518 GWh of electricity was sold to just under 2.3 million domestic consumers in the South West during 2004. This was under a 1% increase on 2003, when 11,413 GWh of electricity was sold.

Households in the South West consumed an average of 5,019 kWh of electricity each in 2004, the second highest in Great Britain and 8% higher than the national average of 4,628 kWh. The highest average electricity consumption was found in the East (5,091 kWh), whilst the lowest was in the North East (3,936 kWh).

Average domestic consumption in the region was slightly lower than in 2003, when domestic electricity consumption was 5,038 kWh. This is in contrast to the national trend, which showed a slight increase from 4,600 - 4,628 kWh (0.6% increase).
 

A total of 28,959 GWh of gas was sold to over 1.56 million domestic consumers in the South West during 2004. This was 4% increase on 2003, when 27,806 GWh of gas was sold.

Households also consumed an average of 18,546 kWh of gas each in 2004, the lowest rate in Great Britain and some 10% lower than the national average of 20,398 kWh. The highest average gas consumption was found in North East (21,170 kWh).

Domestic gas consumption in the region increased slightly between 2003 and 2004, from 17,888 - 18,546 kWh. This was in line with the national trend, which also increased from 19,955 in 2003 to 20,398 kWh in 2004.

 
Regional domestic gas sales 2004

Average domestic gas consumption in the regions 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)

Annual Average Domestic Gas Consumption in 2005 (kWh) per meter point

Map of average domestic gas consumption in 2005 click to enlarge (DTI website)

DTI (2007)

 

Industrial & commercial Electricity use in the South West 2005 - summary

Total sales

15,812 GWh

Number of consumers

252,000

Average consumption

18,546 kWh

Comparison to 2003 & 2004

(n.b. significant improvements in data collection have been made - comparisons should be used with caution)

The amount of electricity sold was 19% higher than in 2003 (13,183 kWh) and 4% higher than 2004 (15,183 kWh). The number of consumers also increased by 9% on 2003 (232,000) and 3% on 2004 (244,000).

Average industrial & commercial consumption was 11% higher than in 2003 (56,755 kWh) and just under 1% higher than in 2004 (62,285 kWh). This was roughly in line with the national trend.

 

 

Sub regional domestic electricity & gas consumption

South West counties

The Former Avon area had the highest number domestic gas consumers (359,000), closely followed by Devon (352,000), whilst Cornwall had the lowest number of consumers (104,000).

Households (measured per meter point) in the South West consumed an average of 5,019 kWh of electricity in 2004, the second highest in Great Britain, 8% higher than the national average of 4,628 kWh. Households also consumed an average of 18,546 kWh of gas in 2004, the lowest rate in Great Britain, some 10% lower than the national average of 20,398 kWh.

Average domestic electricity consumption in South West counties 2004

Domestic electricity consumption in SW counties 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)
Average domestic gas consumption in South West counties 2004

Domestic gas consumption in SW counties 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)

There was a very small decrease in average domestic electricity consumption between 2003 and 2004 in the region, from 5038 kWh to 5,019 kWh (0.4%). However, average domestic gas consumption increased by 4% in the region between 2003 and 2004, from 17,888 kWh to 18,546 kWh.

Households in Cornwall had the highest average electricity consumption in the region (6,152 kWh), whilst the lowest was in the Former Avon authorities (4,654 kWh).

Domestic electricity consumption between 2003 and 2004 increased most significantly in Wiltshire (16%), whilst the Former Avon area experienced a decline of 14%:

County
2003
2004
% change

Cornwall

6,175 kWh

6,152 kWh

Decline 0.4%

Devon

5,041 kWh

5,055 kWh

Increase 0.3%

Somerset

5,249 kWh

5,378 kWh

Increase 2%

Dorset

4,814 kWh

4,765 kWh

Decrease 1%

Wiltshire

4,641 kWh

5,368 kWh

Increase 16%

Gloucestershire

5,176 kWh

5,182 kWh

Increase 0.1%

Former Avon

5,415 kWh

4,654 kWh

Decrease 14%

Household gas consumption was highest in Wiltshire (19,532 kWh) and lowest in Cornwall (16,866 kWh). All counties experienced small increases in domestic gas consumption between 2003 and 2004, most significantly in Cornwall (14%):

County
2003
2004
% change

Cornwall

14,790 kWh

16,866 kWh

Increase 14%

Devon

17,248 kWh

17,643 kWh

Increase 2%

Somerset

17,403 kWh

18,207 kWh

Increase 5%

Dorset

18,985 kWh

19,300 kWh

Increase 2%

Wiltshire

18,809 kWh

19,532 kWh

Increase 4%

Gloucestershire

18,571 kWh

19,440 kWh

Increase 5%

Former Avon

18,478 kWh

19,163 kWh

Increase 4%

 

Cornwall

1,439 GWh of electricity (up from 1,429 GWh in 2003) and 1,740 GWh of gas (up from 1,740 GWh in 2003) was sold to domestic consumers in Cornwall during 2004. This accounted for 11% and 7% of the total regional sales respectively.

An average of 6,152 kWh of electricity was used per domestic meter point in the county of Cornwall & the Isles of Scilly in 2004 (a decrease of 0.4% from 6,174 kWh in 2003).

Average domestic electricity consumption was highest in the Isles of Scilly, with 7,770 kWh (26% than the county average). Penwith had the lowest average consumption with 5,337 kWh (13% lower than the county average).

An average of 16,866 kWh of gas was also used by domestic sources in Cornwall & the Isles of Scilly in 2004 (an increase of 14% from 14,790 kWh in 2003).

Average domestic gas consumption was highest in the Isles of Scilly with 17,878 kWh which (6% higher than the county average). Kerrier had the lowest domestic gas consumption with 16,060 kWh (5% lower than the county average).
domestic electricity consumption in Cornwall local authority areas 2004

Domestic electricity cnsumption in Cornwall local authority areas 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)

Domestic gas consumption in Cornwall local authorities 2004

Average domestic consumption in Cornwall local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)
Devon

2,442 GWh of electricity (up from 2,417 GWh in 2003) and 6,103 GWh (up from 5,797 GWh) of gas was sold to domestic consumers in Devon in 2004. This accounted for 22% and 23% of the total regional sales respectively.

An average of 5,055 kWh of electricity was used per domestic meter point in the county of Devon in 2004 (an increase of 0.3% from 5,041 kWh in 2003).

Average domestic electricity consumption was highest in Mid Devon, with 5,643 kWh (12% higher than the county average). Plymouth had the lowest average consumption with 4,277 kWh (16% below the county average).

An average of 17,643 kWh of gas was also used by domestic sources in Devon in 2004 (an increase of 2% from 17,248 kWh in 2003).

Average domestic gas consumption was highest in West Devon with 19,121 kWh (8% higher than the county average). Plymouth had the lowest domestic gas consumption with 15,718 kWh (11% lower than the county average).
domestic electricity consumption in Devon local authority areas 2004

Domestic electricity consumption in Devon local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)

Domestic gas consumption in Devon 2004

Average domestic gas consumption in Devon local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)
Somerset

1,217 GWh of electricity (up from 1,211 GWh in 2003) and 2,395 GWh of gas (up from 2,279 GWh in 2003) was sold to domestic consumers in Somerset in 2004. This accounted for 10% and 8% of the total regional sales respectively.

An average of 5,378 kWh of electricity was used per domestic meter point in the county of Somerset in 2004 (an increase of 2% from 5,249 kWh in 2003).

Average domestic electricity consumption was highest in West Somerset, with 5,875 kWh (9% higher than the county average). Taunton Deane had the lowest average consumption with 4,974 kWh (4% lower than the county average).

An average of 18,207 kWh of gas was also used by domestic sources in Somerset in 2004 (an increase of 5% from 17,403 kWh in 2003).

Average domestic gas consumption was highest in Mendip with 19,270 kWh (6% higher than the county average). Taunton Deane had the lowest domestic gas consumption with 17,499 kWh (4% lower than the county average.

domestic electricity consumption in Somerset local authority areas

Domestic electricity consumption in Somerset local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)

Domestic gas consumption in Somerset 2004

Averga edomestic gas consumption in Somerset local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)
Dorset

1,604 GWh of electricity (up from 1,600 GWh in 2003) and 4,911 GWh of gas (up from 4,360 GWh in 2003) was sold to domestic consumers in Dorset in 2004. This accounted for 15% and 16% of the total regional sales respectively.

An average of 4,765 kWh of electricity was used per domestic meter point in the county of Dorset in 2004 (a 1% decrease from 4,814 kWh in 2003).

Average domestic electricity consumption was highest in West Dorset with 5,335 kWh (12% higher than the county average). Weymouth & Portland had the lowest average consumption with 4,246 kWh (11% lower than the county average).

An average of 19,300 kWh of gas was also used by domestic sources in Dorset in 2004 (an increase of 2% on 18,985 kWh in 2003).

Average domestic gas consumption was highest in East Dorset with 21,644 kWh (12% higher than the county average). Weymouth & Portland had the lowest domestic gas consumption with 17,429 kWh (10% lower than the county average).
domestic electricity consumption in Dorset local authority areas 2004

Average domestic electricity consumption in Dorset local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)

Domestic gas consumption in Dorset 2004

Average domestic gas consumption in Dorset local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)
Wiltshire

1,453 GWh of electricity (down from 1,437 GWh in 2003) and 3,438 GWh (up from 3,395 GWh in 2003) was sold to domestic consumers in Wiltshire in 2004. This accounted for 12% and 11% of the total regional sales respectively.

An average of 5,368 kWh of electricity was used per domestic meter point in the county of Wiltshire in 2004 (a 16% increase from 4,641 kWh in 2003).

Average domestic electricity consumption was highest in Kennet with 6,404 kWh (19% higher than the county average). Swindon had the lowest average consumption with 4,452 kWh (17% lower than the county average).

An average of 19,532 kWh of gas was also used by domestic sources in Wiltshire in 2004 (an increase of 4% from 18,809 kWh in 2003).

Average domestic gas consumption was highest in Kennet with 20,526 kWh (5% higher than the county average). Swindon had the lowest average domestic gas consumption with 19,006 kWh (3% lower than the county average).

domestic electricity consumption in Wiltshire local authority areas 2004

Average domestic electricity consumption in Wiltshire local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)

Domestic gas consumption in Wiltshire 2004

Average domestic gas consumption in Wiltshire local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)
Former Avon

2,041 GWh of electricity (up from 2,020 GWh in 2003) and 6,843 GWh of gas (up from 6,514 GWh in 2003) was sold to domestic consumers in the Former Avon area in 2004. This accounted for 19% and 23% of the total regional sales respectively.

An average of 4,654 kWh of electricity was used per domestic meter point in the Former Avon area in 2004 (a 14% decrease from 5,415 kWh in 2003).

Average domestic electricity consumption was highest in Bath & North East Somerset with 4,839 kWh (4% higher than the county average). Bristol City had the lowest average consumption with 4,276 kWh (8% lower than the county average).

An average of 19,163 kWh of gas was also used by domestic sources in the Former Avon area in 2004 (an increase of 4% from 18,478 kWh in 2003).

Average domestic gas consumption was highest in Bath & North East Somerset with 20,172 kWh (5% higher than the county average). South Gloucestershire had the lowest average domestic gas consumption with 18,453 kWh (4% lower than the county average).
domestic electricity consumption in Former Avon local authority areas 2004

Average domestic electricity consumption in Former Avon local authority areas 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)

Domestic gas consumption in Former Avon 2004

Average domestic gas consumption in Former Avon local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2004)
Gloucestershire

1,322 GWh of electricity (up from 1,299 GWh in 2003) and 3,530 GWh of gas (down from 3,793 GWh in 2003) was sold to domestic consumers in Gloucestershire in 2004. This accounted for 11% and 12% of the total regional sales respectively.

An average of 5,812 kWh of electricity was used per domestic meter point in the county of Gloucestershire in 2004 (a 0.1% increase from 5,176 kWh in 2003).

Average domestic electricity consumption was highest in Cotswold with 6,091 kWh (16% higher than the county average). Cheltenham and Gloucester had the lowest average consumption, both with 4,546 kWh (12% lower than the county average).

An average of 19,440 kWh of gas was also used by domestic sources in Gloucerstershire in 2004 (an increase of 5% on 18,571 kWh in 2003).

Average domestic gas consumption was highest in Cotswold with 21,793 kWh (12% higher than the county average). Gloucester had the lowest domestic gas consumption with 18,206 kWh (7% lower than the county average).

domestic electricity consumption in Gloucestershire local authority areas 2004

Average domestic electricity consumption in Gloucestershire local authority areas 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)

Domestic gas consumption in Gloucestershire 2004

Domestic gas consumption in Gloucestershire local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)
Local authority level domestic consumption

With an average of 7,770 kWh of electricity used per domestic meter point in 2004, the Isles of Scilly had the highest average domestic electricity consumption in the region - almost 55% higher than the regional average of 5,019 kWh.

The lowest average consumption rate was found in Plymouth with 4,227 kWh of electricity used per domestic meter point - around 16% lower than the regional average. This was closely followed by Weymouth & Portland with 4,246 kWh.

 

Average domestic electricity consumption in South West local authority areas in 2004

Domestic electricity consumption in SW local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)

Average domestic gas consumption per meter point was highest in Cotswold with 21,793 kWh in 2004 - just under 18% higher than the regional average of 18,546 kWh. This was closely followed by East Dorset with 21,644 kWh - around 17% higher than the average.

The lowest average consumption rate was found in Plymouth with 15,718 kWh - 15% lower than the regional average. This was closely followed by Kerrier with 16,060 kWh or 13% lower than the average.

Average domestic gas use tended to be higher in Dorset, North Somerset & Wiltshire and lowest in Cornwall and Devon.

Average Domestic gas consumption in South West local authorities 2004

Domestic gas consumption in SW local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)

Industrial and commercial electricity and gas consumption

at a glance...
  • A total of 15,812 Gwh of electricity was sold to just over 2.5 million industrial & commercial meter points in the South West in 2005. This marks 20% increase on 2003 (13,183 Gwh) and a 4% increase on 2004 (15,189 Gwh). The number of meter points have also increased from 232,000 in 2003 and 244,000 in 2004.
  • South West industrial & commercial premises consumed an average of 62,847 kWh of electricity in 2005, the 2nd lowest recorded in the UK behind Greater London with 68,568 kWh. This was 20% lower than the UK average of 78,223 kWh.
  • A total of 16,247 GWh of gas was sold to 28,000 consumers in the South West in 2005. The total amount of gas sold was very similar to the 16,274 GWh sold in 2004, however, the number of consumers decreased by 19% from 34,600 in 2004.
  • Industrial & commerical premised consumed an average of 584,372 kWh of gas in 2005
  • South West commercial & industrial premises consumed an average of 470,255 kWh of gas in 2004, the 3rd lowest recorded in Great Britain
  • Average commercial & industrial gas consumption in the region was 26% lower in 2004 than in 2003. This was in line with the national trend, which declined by 24%
in detail...

A total of 11,518 GWh of electricity was sold to just under 2.3 million domestic consumers in the South West during 2004 (8% of the total sold in Great Britain). This was around a 15% increase on 2003, when 13,183 GWh of electricity was sold.

Commerce and industry in the South West consumed an average of 62,285 kWh of electricity in 2004, the lowest recorded in Great British regions. The highest average consumption was found in the East Midlands (97,057 kWh), closely followed by the North East (96,912 kWh).

Average commercial & industrial electricity consumption in the region was 10% higher than in 2003, when average consumption was 56,755 kWh. This was in contrast to the national trend, which showed a very slight decline of 0.4%, from 77,908 in 2003 t0 77,620 kWh in 2004.
Average Industrial & commercial electricity consumption in the regions 2004

Average industrial & commercial electricity consumption in the regions 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)

Average Annual Industrial/Commercial Electricity Consumption in 2005 (kWh) per meter point

Map showing average industrial & commercial electricity consumption in 2005 click to enlarge (DTI website)

DTI (2007)

A total of 16,274 GWh of gas was sold to over 34,600 commercial & industrial consumers in 2004 (under 6% of the total sold in Great Britain). This was over a 41% decrease on 2003, when 27,806 GWh of gas was sold.

Commerce & industry in the South West consumed an average of 470,255 kWh of gas in 2004. This was the 3rd lowest recorded in Great Britain, behind Greater London (394,770 kWh) and the South East (408,527 kWh). The highest average consumption was found in Scotland (775,546 kWh), closely followed by Wales (775,488 kWh) and Yorkshire & the Humber (699,128 kWh).

Average commercial & industrial gas consumption in the region was 26% lower in 2004 than in 2003, when average consumption was 635,968 kWh. This was in line with the national trend, which showed a decline of 24%, from 723,930 in 2003 to 552,597 kWh in 2004.
Average industrial & commercial gas consumption in the regions 2004

Average commercial & industrial gas consumption in the regions 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)

Average Annual Industrial/Commercial Gas Consumption in 2005 (kWh) per meter point

Map of average industrial & commercial gas consumption 2005 click to enlarge (DTI website)

DTI (2007)

Sub regional commercial & industrial electricity & gas consumption

An average of 62,285 kWh of electricity was consumed by industry & commerce in the South West in 2004. Average consumption was highest in the Former Avon area, with 83,018 kWh (33% higher than the regional average), closely followed by Wiltshire with 81,836 kWh (31% higher than the regional average).

Conwall had the lowest average consumption with 45,822 kWh (26% below the regional average), followed by Devon with 47,934 kWh (23% lower than the regional average).

Industrial & commercial electricity consumption in South West counties 2004

Average commercial & industrial electricity consumption in South West counties 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)

An average of 470,255 kWh of gas was consumed by industry & commerce in the South West in 2004. Average consumption was significantly higher in Somerset than in any other county, with 1,098,947 kWh (134% higher than the regional average). Dorset had the lowest average consumption, with 305,335 (35% below the regional average.

Industrial & commercial gas consumption in South West counties 2004

Average commercial & industrial gas consumption in South West counties 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)

Industrial & commercial electricity consumption between 2003 and 2004 increased in most of the South West counties, most significantly in Gloucestershire (33%). However, small declines were experienced in Wiltshire (2%) and Devon (0.4%):

County
2003
2004
% change

Cornwall

35,632

45,822

Increase 29%

Devon

47,954

47,934

Decrease 0.4%

Somerset

54,443

59,458

Increase 9%

Dorset

49,075

57,449

Increase 17%

Wiltshire

83,763

81,836

Decrease 2%

Gloucestershire

59,852

79,528

Increase 33%

Former Avon

71,984

83,018

Increase 15%

Industrial & commercial gas consumption declined in most of the South West counties between 2003 and 2004, most significantly in Dorset (36%) and the Former Avon area (27%). However, Devon experienced an increase of 25%:

County
2003
2004
% change

Cornwall

637,259

633,436

Decrease 0.6%

Devon

617,027

460,777

Increase 25%

Somerset

1,452,352

1,098,947

Decrease 24%

Dorset

478,175

305,088

Decrease 36%

Wiltshire

623,898

483,385

Decrease 22%

Gloucestershire

621,715

463,976

Decrease 25%

Former Avon

666,665

487,280

Decrease 27%

 

Cornwall

1,549 GWh of electricity (down from 1,608 GWh in 2003) and 1,472 GWh of gas (up from 1,138 GWh in 2003) was sold to commercial & industrial consumers in Cornwall in 2004. This accounted for 13% and 9% of the total regional sales respectively.

An average of 45,822 kWh of electricity was used by commerce & industry in the county of Cornwall in 2004 (a 29% increase from 35,632 kWh in 2003).

Average commercial & industrial electricity consumption was significantly higher in Restormel with 108,679 kWh (137% higher than the county average). The Isles of Scilly had the lowest average consumption with 20,067 kWh (56% lower than the county average).

An average of 633,436 kWh of gas was also used by commerce & industry in Cornwall in 2004 (a decrease of 0.6% on 637,259 kWh in 2003).

Average commercial & industrial gas consumption was significantly higher in the Isles of Scilly with 1,689,847 kWh (167% higher than the county average). Penwith had the lowest average consumption with 231,885 kWh (63% lower than the county average).
industrial & commercial electricity consumption in Cornwall local authorities 2004

Average commercial & industrial electricity consumption in Cornwall local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)

iNDUSTRIAL & COMMERCIAL Gas consumption in Cornwall local authorities 2004

Industrial & commercial gas consumption in Cornwall local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)
Devon

2,835 GWh of electricity (up from 2,778 GWh in 2003) and 3,301GWh of gas (down from 3,660 GWh in 2003) was sold to commercial & industrial consumers in Devon in 2004. This accounted for 24% and 20% of the total regional sales respectively.

An average of 47,934 kWh of electricity was used by commerce & industry in Devon in 2004 (a 0.4% decrease from 47,954 kWh in 2003).

Average commercial & industrial electricity consumption was highest in Plymouth with 75,098 kWh (57% higher than the county average). This was closely followed by Exeter with 69,999 kWh (46% higher than the county average). East Devon had the lowest average consumption with 32,160 kWh (33% lower than the county average), closely followed by Torridge with 21,208 kWh.

An average of 460,777 kWh of gas was also used by commerce & industry in Devon in 2004 (a 25% increase from 617,027 kWh in 2003).

Average commercial & industrial gas consumption was highest in South Hams with 617,133 kWh (34% higher than the county average), closely followed by Plymouth with 609,632 kWh and West Devon with 609,578 kWh. Torbay had the lowest average consumption with 263,170 kWh (43% lower than the county average).
industrial & commercial electricity consumption in Devon local authority areas 2004

Average industrial & commercial electricity consumption in Devon local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)

Gas consumption in Devon 2004

Average commercial & industrial gas consumption in Devon 2004click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)
Somerset

1,565 GWh of electricity (up from 1,414 GWh in 2003) and 2,321 GWh of gas (down from 2,622 GWh in 2003) was sold to commercial & industrial consumers in Somerset in 2004. This accounted for 11% and 9% of the total regional sales respectively.

An average of 59,458 kWh of electricity was used by commerce & industry in Somerset in 2004 (a 9% increase from 54,443 kWh in 2003).

Average commercial & industrial electricity consumption was highest in Sedgemoor with 66,198 kWh (11% higher than the county average). This was closely followed by Mendip with 63,781 kWh. South Somerset had the lowest average consumption with 53,566 kWh (10% lower than the county average).

An average of 1,098,947 kWh of gas was also used by commerce & industry in Somerset in 2004 (a 24% decline from 1,452,352 kWh in 2003).

Average commercial & industrial gas consumption was significantly higher in West Somerset with 2,552,270 kWh (132% higher than the county average). Taunton Deane had the lowest average consumption with 347,890 kWh (68% lower than the county average).
industrial & commercial electricity consumption in Somerset local authority areas 2004

Average industrial & commercial electricity consumption in Somerset local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)

Gas consumption in Somerset 2004

Average industrial & commercial electricity consumption in Somerset local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)
Dorset

1,925 GWh of electricity (up from 1,674 GWh in 2003) and 1,731 GWh of gas (down from 1,986 GWh in 2003) was sold to commercial & industrial consumers in Dorset in 2004. This accounted for 15% and 17% of the total regional sales respectively.

An average of 57,449 kWh of electricity was used by commerce & industry in Dorset in 2004 (a 17% increase on 49,075 kWh in 2003).

Average commercial & industrial consumption was significantly higher in Purbeck with 110,297 kWh (92% higher than the county average). West Dorset had the lowest average consumption with 33,843 kWh (41% lower than the county average).

An average of 305,088 kWh of gas was also used by commerce & industry in Dorset in 2004 (a 36% decline on 478,175 kWh in 2003).

Average commercial & industrial gas consumption was highest in Poole with 377,543 kWh (24% higher than the county average). Bournemouth had the lowest consumption with 250,465 kWh (18% lower than the county average).
industrial & commercial electricity consumption in Dorset local authority areas 2004

Average industrial & commercial electricity consumption in Dorset local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)

Industrial & commercial gas consumption in Dorset 2004

Average commercial & industrial gas consumption in Dorset local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)
Wiltshire

2,229 GWh of electricity (up from 2,163 GWh in 2003) and 2,114 GWh of gas (down from 2,350 GWh in 2003) was sold to commercial & industrial consumers in Wiltshire in 2004. This accounted for 11% and 12% of the total regional sales respectively.

An average of 81,836 kWh of electricity was used by commerce & industry in Wiltshire in 2004 (a 2% decline from 83,763 kWh in 2003).

Average commercial & industrial consumption was highest in Swindon with 147,023 kWh (80% higher than the county average). Kennet had the lowest average consumption with 48,957 kWh (40% lower than the county average).

An average of 483,335 kWh of gas was also used by commerce & industry in Wiltshire in 2004 (a 22% decline from 623,898 kWh in 2003).

Average commercial & industrial gas consumption was highest in North Wiltshire with 603,825 kWh (25% higher than the county average). Kennet had the lowest consumption with 296,700 kWh (39% lower than the county average).
industrial & commercial electricity consumption in Wiltshire local authority areas 2004

Average commercial 7& industrial electricity consumption in Wiltshire local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)

Industrial & commercial gas consumption in Wiltshire local authorities 2004

Average commercial & industrial gas consumption in Wiltshire local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)
Former Avon

3,215 GWh of electricity (up from 2,719 GWh in 2003) and 3,303 GWh of gas (down from 3,813 GWh in 2003) was sold to commercial & industrial consumers in the Former Avon area in 2004. This accounted for 17% and 20% of the total regional sales respectively.

An average of 83,018 kWh of electricity was consumed by commerce & industry in the Former Avon area in 2004 (a 15% increase from 71,984 kWh in 2003).

Average commercial & industrial consumption was highest in South Gloucestershire with 150,783 kWh (82% higher than the county average). Bath & North East Somerset had the lowest consumption with 52,706 kWh (37% lower than the county average).

An average of 487,280 kWh of gas was also used by commerce & industry in the Former Avon area in 2004 (a 27% decline from 666,665 kWh in 2003).

Average commercial & industrial gas consumption was highest in South Gloucestershire with 656,454 kWh (35% higher than the county average). Bath & North East Somerset had the lowest average consumption with 332,524 kWh (32% lower than the county average).
industrial & commercial electricity consumption in Former Avon local authority areas 2004

Average commercial & industrial electricity consumption in Former Avon local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)

Industrial & commercial gas consumption in Former Avon local authorities 2004

Average industrial & commercial gas consumption in Former Avon local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)
Gloucestershire

1,871 GWh of electricity (up from 1,297 GWh in 2003) and 2,034 GWh of gas (down from (2,385 GWh in 2003) was sold to commercial & industrial consumers in Gloucestershire in 2004. This accounted for 10% and 14% of the total regional sales respectively.

An average of 79,528 kWh of electricity was consumed by commerce & industry in Gloucestershire in 2004 (a 33% increase from 59,852 kWh in 2003).

Average commercial & industrial consumption was highest in Tewksbury with 114,533 kWh (44% higher than the county average). Cotwold had the lowest consumption with 36,660 kWh (54% lower than the county average).

An average of 463,976 kWh of gas was also used by commerce & industry in Gloucestershire in 2004 (a 25% decline fom 621,715 kWh in 2003).

Average commercial & industrial gas consumption was highest in the Forest of Dean with 688,648 kWh (48% higher than the county average). Cotswold had the lowest average consumption with 293,785 kWh (37% lower than the county average).
industrial & commercial electricity consumption in Gloucestershire local authority areas 2004

Average commercial & industrial electricity consumption in Gloucestershire local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)

Industrial & commercial gas consumption in Gloucestershire 2004

Average industrial & commercial gas consumption 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)
South West local authorities

South Gloucestershire had the highest average industrial & commercial electricity consumption in the South West, with 150,783 kWh (142% higher than the regional average of 62,285 kWh). This was followed by Swindon with 147,023 kWh (136% higher than the national average).

The Isles of Scilly had the lowest consumption of electricity by commercial & industrial premises, with 20,067 kWh (68% lower than the regional average), followed by Penwith with 27,889 (55% below the regional average.

In general, the eight principle urban areas in the South West had the highest average rates of industrial and commercial electricity consumption. These included Bristol, Bournemouth & Poole, Plymouth, Swindon, Gloucester, Torbay, Cheltenham and Exeter.

Population density appears to have an impact on industrial and commercial electricity consumption. Lrge urban areas with the highest population density tending to have the highest average industrial & commercial consumption rates. Rural areas with low population densities were amongst the lowest consumers.

industrial & commercial electricity consumption in South West local authority areas 2004

Average commercial & industrial electricity consumption in all South West local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)

In terms of commercial & industrial gas consumption, West Somerset had a significantly higher average consumption with 3,086,787 kWh (134% higher than the regional average of 470,255 kWh). This was followed by Sedgemoor with 2,136,803 kWh and Restormel with 2,019,779 kWh.

The Isles of Scilly had no industrial or commercial gas consumption in 2004. Penwith had the second lowest average consumption with 217,752 (54% below the regional average) and Bournemouth with 320,753 kWh (32% below the regional average).

Industrial & commercial gas consumption in South West local authorities 2004

Average commercial & industrial gas consumption in all South West local authorities 2004 click to enlarge

Source: DTI (2005)

Energy efficiency - England House Condition Survey 2003

The 2003 English House Condition Survey (EHCS) analyses four key areas of the nation's housing stock:

  • Decent homes
  • Private sector vulnerable households living in non-decent homes
  • Energy efficiency
  • Liveability

The energy efficiency of an individual dwelling is described in terms of an energy cost rating. A scale of 0 to 120 is used for the SAP rating, a higher rating indicates a better level of energy efficiency, a lower rating indicates that the household is more likely to experience difficulties in heating their homes effectively. Factors which are taken into consideration in the rating are dwelling type (with terraced housing generally being more energy efficient than detached housing) and construction materials, type of heating system and the presence of insulation.

Key findings
  • The energy efficiency of homes (all tenures) in both the North East and London were significantly higher than the national average, reflecting a high proportion of terraced houses and flats compared to other dwelling types and the highest proportions of social sector homes, which all tend to have higher SAP ratings.
  • Average SAP ratings in private sector homes in the South West and the West Midlands are significantly lower than the national average (scoring 49.3 and 49.5 respectively compared to the English average of 51.4). In the South West this reflects a high proportion of stock with SAP ratings below 30 in both the private and social sector. The South West has a particularly high proportion of stock in rural areas and the lowest proportion of homes with gas fired heating systems. Rural areas account for 95% of all oil fuelled heating systems and 60% of solid fuel systems, as not all rural areas have mains gas supplies. Homes with these heating systems are more likely to have lower SAP ratings.
  • Social sector homes in the South East have significantly higher than average SAP ratings, including a high proportion of stock with a SAP level greater than 70. The South East has a particularly high proportion of post 1965 dwellings which are more likely to have higher average SAP ratings.
  • Social sector homes in Yorkshire and The Humber have significantly lower than average SAP ratings reflecting their high proportion of social sector homes with SAP ratings less than 30 and their low proportion of homes with SAP ratings greater than 70. The East of England is the only region where the proportion of social sector homes with SAP ratings less than 30 is significantly lower than the national average.

Energy Review 2006 - key outcomes

The government has published its Energy Review (11th July 2006), aimed at providing a balanced package of mesaures to meet our future energy needs in a sustainable way.

The Review reinforces the UK's long-term energy policy in the face of mounting threats from climate change and energy security. Trade and Industry Secretary Alistair Darling outlined ideas designed to reduce the demand for energy, and to secure a mix of clean, low-carbon energy sources.

Key outcomes at a glance

Energy needs
  • Climate change must be tackled but the UK also must ensure it has secure energy supplies at affordable prices
  • The government will publish a white paper around the end of the year on energy policy for the next 30 or 40 years
Nuclear power
  • Decisions on replacing Britain's nuclear power stations need to be made in the next few years
  • If nothing is done, the share of electricity generated by nuclear will fall from just under 20% now to 6% in 15 years' time
  • "New nuclear power stations would make a significant contribution to meeting our energy policy goals," says the review - if existing capacity is replaced carbon emissions would be lower by the equivalent of two gas-fired power stations
  • The Health and Safety Executive will develop guidance for potential promoters of new nuclear power plants by early next year
  • The private sector will have to fund, build and operate nuclear plants and cover decommissioning costs
    Safety and security will be "paramount" for building new nuclear plants
  • The planning rules for nuclear and other new energy plants needs to be overhauled
Saving energy
  • Cutting the amount of carbon-polluting electricity generators will not be enough to meet the UK's target of reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 2050 - energy must be saved too
  • Consumers need better information about the amount of energy used, "smart metering", clearer energy bills and more information on home energy efficiency
  • The government will work with industry on making domestic appliances more efficient and phase out wasteful goods - saying 7% of all electricity is used by appliances left on standby
  • Government-owned properties should be carbon neutral by 2012
  • Ministers will encourage people to make their homes energy efficient
  • Energy suppliers must get incentives to make households more energy efficient, such as selling more insulation
Emissions trading
  • The government is planning an emissions trading scheme for the 5,000 large British businesses and public services not covered by the European trading scheme
  • There must be higher prices for carbon polluting generators
Transport
  • Fuel efficiency is improving. The use of lower carbon fuels, especially biofuels, will be encouraged
  • There will be most cost effective opportunities to save carbon as new technologies are developed
  • The target for the amount of transport fuel coming from renewable sources could be raised from 5% to 10% by 2015
Cleaner energy
  • More must be done to encourage smaller scale electricity generators - and combined heat and power plants - sited close to where the power is used
  • Low carbon alternatives such as bio mass, solar power and heat pumps will be encouraged
Renewables
  • Electricity companies will have to provide 20% of energy from renewables - up from the current 15%
  • There will be consultations on banding the rules on renewables to encourage the growth of off shore wind power and tidal plants
Fossil fuels
  • Coal fired power still meets a third of electricity demand but its heavy carbon emissions must be tackled
  • Carbon capture and storage could cut emissions by 80-90% from fossil fuels
  • Carbon dioxide can be stored in old oil fields - the UK is working with Norway to develop this and plans will be in the pre-Budget report
  • Carbon capture could lead to saving several millions tonnes of carbon by 2020
  • Steps must be taken to secure gas supplies

WWF PowerSwitch! Campaign

Earth's temperatures are rising, the impacts of climate change can be felt all over the world. 37% of the global CO2 emissions are produced by the power sector. With PowerSwitch! we want to change this. Join WWF's PowerSwitch! campaign for a cleaner energy future. Our campaign is about cleaning up the power sector, pushing for renewable and efficient energy, and making power companies accountable.

Sign the power pledge and join the campaign

Fuel poverty

Fuel poverty refers to the inability to afford to adequately heat the home. It occurs when a household needs to spend 10% or more of its income on fuel to maintain satisfactory heating and other energy services.

The level of fuel poverty in England stands at 1.2 million households, with 1.0 million of those being considered vulnerable. The number of households in fuel poverty in the UK in 2003 is estimated to stand at two million, down some four and a half million from 1996 (DTI, 2005)

In the South West, it is estimated that 12.1% of households are living in fuel poverty (250,000 homes). Around half of these homes will house people over 65. The ONS estimate that 2,300 avoidable winter deaths occur annually in the region. Not all of these deaths can be contributed to cold homes but countries with more severe winters than the UK (such as Sweden, Germany and Canada) have a comparatively low variation of deaths across the seasons. This suggest that poor housing standards and comparatively low incomes are a crucial factors (Government Office for the South West)

More information about housing and fuel poverty in the South West is available from Low Carbon South West.

The Centre for Sustainable Energy and the University of Bristol have developed a Fuel Poverty Indicator to predicting fuel poverty in England at the local level. This tool helps to:

  • Improve the targeting and design of area-based programmes to alleviate fuel poverty
  • Complement the use of benefit receipt as a passport to grants (e.g. Warm Front)
  • Monitor and evaluate the success of Government, local authority, energy supplier and other programmes to alleviate fuel poverty
  • Assist with modelling the predicted impact of fuel poverty alleviation programmes
  • Aid other research on fuel poverty, e.g. health impacts and health service management, investigating cold-related illnesses.
What you can do

Warm Front logoIf you are having problems in heating your home, contact the Warm Front Team.

Warm Front is the Government's main grant-funded programme for tackling fuel poverty by providing packages of insulation and heating measures depending upon the needs of the householder and the construction of the property. The scheme offers:

  1. Grants of up to £1,500 - offering packages of insulation such as loft and/or cavity wall insulation, draught proofing, gas wall heaters, dual element foam insulated immersion tank, heating repairs and replacements.
  2. Grants of up to £2,500 - are available to households who are over 60 and receive an income-related benefit. The grant provides insulation measures and, for those who do not have an existing heating system, a central heating system for the main living areas of the household.