Energy Act 2004
This Act sets up the energy framework for the UK. It provides the framework for the development of offshore wind and other marine renewable energy sources outside territorial waters. Such measures were expected to contribute to meeting the country’s 10% renewable energy target by 2010.
The Act establishes a Renewable Energy Zone (REZ), adjacent to UK territorial waters, within which renewable energy installations can be established. The Act enables the Crown Estate to award licences for wind farm sites in the REZ on much the same basis as it currently leases sites within territorial waters.
The Act implemented a range of commitments made in the 2003 Energy White Paper, including those relating to energy efficiency, such as raising building and product standards, and creating an Energy Efficiency Action Plan for the UK.
