Reasons for optimism over solar energy

BOB Berrisford quotes figures from a book by the great Professor David MacKay of Cambridge University to question previous positive messages about the benefits of solar energy (“Complexity of heating UK with solar power”, February 19).

Of course, Mr Berrisford is right that solar power alone would not be a sensible solution to meet our electricity needs and that we have other options, such as wind energy. Yes, we need to use a range of solutions.

Written in 2008, MacKay’s analysis has turned out to be overly pessimistic. Clean energy has improved in efficiency, and reduced in cost, far more than anyone could have predicted 16 years ago.

Like all those concerned about climate change, I feel certain that Sir David MacKay, if he was still alive, would have been pleased to see the Oxford University analysis, published just a few months ago, by Brian O’Callaghan and colleagues. It concludes that, in practical terms, wind and solar can provide almost ten times our current electricity needs and even support the electrification of much of the economy.

We must also remember that technology doesn’t stand still because there are further efficiencies in solar panels in the pipeline. Other solutions are also possible such as tidal and geothermal energy that could become practical by 2050.

Most people will be pleased to know that a positive attitude to decarbonisation is supported by the latest in-depth analyses that show our aims are achievable and affordable.

Indeed, other recent studies go further and say decarbonisation is an economic opportunity. Michael Carter