Renewable energy will play a crucial part in Britain’s energy mix, claimed the Chancellor in his Budget Statement, though it appears that he is more interested in looking to gas-fired generation to deliver security of supply and carbon emissions reductions.

The Judicial Review of the Department of Energy and Climate Change’s (DECC) Consultation on Feed-in Tariffs offers the prospect of a temporary reprieve for Solar PV developers and their customers, although, with DECC having lodged an application for leave to appeal against the decision, the sector remains dogged by uncertainty. DECC’s application, together with the appeal itself, if DECC is granted leave to appeal, will be heard on 13 January 2012.

With Fuel Poverty at its highest level since 1996, social landlords are looking for ways to reduce their tenants’ energy consumption and costs. Current and forthcoming Government measures to address the problem offer a wealth of opportunities to social landlords, but also risks and threats. Morgan Cole is proud to have played a prominent role in the implementation of measures to tackle fuel poverty measures, whilst helping to manage the risk of clients in the social housing sector.

Here we provide an update regarding environmental matters for June 2011 including legislation, case law, guidance and consultation. If you have any queries regarding the Environmental update or any aspect of environmental law, please contact Paul Brennan on 0118 955 3004 or Eleanor Turner on 029 2038 5427.

Whether you are an energy company or a utility provider seeking to install cables or pipes within a third party’s land or an owner faced with a request to have cables or pipes installed within your land we have the expertise to advise you on your rights and your obligations.