UK's energy future

The coalition government's plans for the future of Britain's energy and climate change priorities have prompted cautious responses from environmental groups.

Chris Huhne delivered the annual energy statement to the Commons yesterday, opening a consultation on options for the UK over the next 40 years.

Britain must reduce its carbon emissions by 80% by 2050 to meet its international commitments.

The role of nuclear power in helping achieve that reduction is proving divisive, while the extent to which public spending cuts are limiting the pace of the transition to a low-carbon economy is of concern.

The government is set to publish its full energy strategy after the comprehensive spending review is completed in October 2010.