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Calling on governments for change

Climate change is such a serious global threat that big changes in the energy system are required. New government policies are critical to achieving these changes. We have stepped up our advocacy efforts, calling for governments to introduce effective measures to reduce CO2 emissions.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) - opens in new window confirmed in 2007 that, to reduce the risk of global temperatures rising dangerously, emissions of greenhouse gases need to peak in the next 10-20 years and then fall substantially. It said concentrations of greenhouse gases eventually needed to stabilise at 450 parts per million (ppm) or below. Our “Blueprints” scenario demonstrates the scale of that challenge.

We understand we have a role to play: Firstly by managing emissions from the operations we control or operate, which were approximately 75 million tonnes of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in 2008. Secondly by helping customers manage their emissions from the use of the transport fuels and other energy products we provide. These emissions are typically more than 690 million tonnes of CO2 a year or approximately 2.4% of the annual, CO2 emissions from fossil fuels (and approximately 1.5% of annual man-made GHG emissions). And thirdly, by advocating the wide-ranging policy changes needed from governments.

Calling for change

So what are we advocating? We have the same message for governments everywhere as they prepare for the 2009 climate change conference in Copenhagen. Firstly, that a stable, long-term regulatory framework, including an international cost of emitting CO2, is urgently needed. This regulatory framework would encourage the technology and investments needed to increase energy efficiency and lower the CO2 intensity of energy supplies, without distorting international competition. The Bali Declaration in late 2007 established a roadmap that, if followed, could bring such a framework about. With its broad agreement about the need to act, attention must now focus on details.

Secondly, that different types of energy users will require different policy instruments: emissions trading systems, for example, for power stations or industrial facilities; measures for transportation that encourage greater vehicle efficiency; more efficient modes of transport; and fuels that emit less CO2 on a “well-to-wheel” basis.

Thirdly, that renewable power sources like wind and solar need simple, stable and credible targets for their share of electricity supply. Finally, that these changes need to happen fast. They cannot be delayed by the current recession.

CO2 capture and storage (CCS)

CCS is a critical area where governments need to provide support for demonstration projects. In 2008, we helped build and lead an ad hoc coalition of companies, NGOs and think tanks to encourage the European Union to find an effective way to fund the 10-12 CCS demonstration projects it aims to have in operation by 2015. In December, the EU agreed to grant these projects credits in the EU Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS).