Public sector energy efficiency plan ''to address renewable energy''

Written by Andrew Marshall.

Issues surrounding energy efficiency and renewable energy are expected to be addressed through a new public sector scheme.

Ministers have announced that funding of £20 million will be pledged towards lowering the carbon footprints of central government departments.

In a bid to cut energy costs as well as carbon emissions, it is thought the scheme may support the introduction of things like smart meters and energy efficient techniques.

Meanwhile, the potential for renewable energy sites to be developed on areas of public land will be looked at, with the Forestry Commission also set to be involved.

Joan Ruddock, energy and climate change minister, believes the government should try and set an energy efficient example to other people.

She said: ''We know it''s important to show leadership in this area - if we want everyone else to retrofit their homes it''s important government buildings also get some treatment.''

The government has also announced new funding to try and tap into the potential of deep geothermal renewable energy.