Office for National Statistics
 Printable version
|
ONS to measure UK ‘green economy’
How many UK businesses are involved in the production of low carbon and renewable energy and how much does the sector contribute to the economy as a whole? The Office for National Statistics (ONS) is launching a major new survey that will assess the value of the ‘green economy’.
The Low Carbon and Renewable Energy Economic Survey is part of ONS’s work to value areas of the economy not captured by traditional indicators. Its findings can help to inform policies on jobs, growth and investment.
Glenn Everett, Director of the Measuring National Well-being programme, said:
“The use of green energy is rising and is now around six times higher than it was two decades ago. ONS’s mission is to create the most comprehensive picture of the UK economy, so it’s important to measure the impact this growing sector is having.”
In 2012, 9.6 Mtoe (see background notes) of energy was consumed from renewable and waste sources, 4.5% of total energy consumption in the UK. This has grown steadily from 1.3 Mtoe 1990.
The new survey has been welcomed by many involved in the environment sector, who say it will provide important information.
Will McDowall, from University College London's Energy Institute said:
"This new survey will provide much-needed, robust evidence on the strength, size and dynamics of Britain’s low-carbon and renewable energy sectors. It will provide crucial insight into understanding how the UK economy is responding to the challenges of developing new, low-carbon and renewable energy industries."
Background notes
Mtoe – million tonnes of oil equivalent – is a measure of energy, defined as the amount of energy released by burning one million tonnes of crude oil.
The first survey will be sent out to 40,000 businesses across the UK covering a range of different types of businesses, including those involved in manufacturing, energy production, construction and waste collection.
The surveys will be sent out between 5-9 February, and ONS aims to produce its first statistics based on the results by the end of 2015.
Follow us on www.twitter.com/statisticsONS and on the ONS Youtube channel at www.youtube.com/user/onsstats
Details of the policy governing the release of new data are available from the media relations office.
National Statistics are produced to high professional standards set out in the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. They undergo regular quality assurance reviews to ensure that they meet customer needs. They are produced free from any political interference.
Issued by: Office for National Statistics, Government Buildings, Cardiff Road, Newport NP10 8XG
Media contact:
Tel Adam Wheeler 01633456306
Emergency on-call 07867 906553
E-mail adam.wheeler@ons.gsi.gov.uk
Statistical contact:
Tel James Evans 01633 456644
E-mail james.evans@ons.gov.uk
Details of the policy governing the release of new data are available by visiting www.statisticsauthority.gov.uk/assessment/code-of-practice/index.html or from the Media Relations Office email: media.relations@ons.gsi.gov.uk
