Fiona Hall, North East MEP, calls for International Renewable Energy Agency

3.00.00pm GMT Mon 10th Nov 2008

Lib Dem renewable energy expert, Fiona Hall MEP, has co-initiated a Written Declaration in the European Parliament, to further plans for the foundation of an International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

Decreasing levels of fossil fuels and environmental concerns mean that renewable energy sources will play an increasingly important role in any future energy mix. The EU has set binding renewable energy targets of 20% by 2020, yet despite this the promotion of renewable energy sources at an international level has so far been left uncoordinated.

Fiona Hall supports calls by Germany, Spain and Denmark for the establishment of an international agency on renewable energy, similar to the two agencies that have been representing fossil fuels (International Energy Agency) and nuclear energy (International Atomic Energy Agency) for many years. Said Fiona:

"I cannot stress enough the importance of renewable energy sources. We can't keep relying on conventional energy such as oil. Not only are these sources running out fast, but many are also controlled by unreliable regimes which put our energy security at risk. Most importantly, however, they have a devastating affect on the environment.

"We need fast action now and an international agency to promote the development of new renewable energy sources and technology could take the lead. The provision of energy is an international challenge and calls for international solutions and co-operation.

"The North East, in particular, is set to profit from the growing renewable energy sector. Thanks to the presence of many new and renewable energy companies and research centres in the North East, an expanding renewables sector has the potential to create thousands of green-collar jobs in the region."