GUERNSEY should cut its carbon emissions by 30% in the next 12 years, the Energy Policy Steering Group says. It is also suggesting an 80% cut by 2050 against 1990 levels – both targets have already been floated in the UK.

But the island is currently falling well short of hitting its current carbon emission commitment of a 12.5% reduction by 2012, having slipped back to 1990 levels according to the latest available figures, primarily because more energy was produced on-island.

‘I think the whole group were rather shocked by emission figures when we had them. We had a rough indication we were looking at an unfortunate circumstance where we were just above 1990 levels a few months ago. I think that’s hardened our approach to the whole issue, it certainly did mine,’ said Energy Policy Group chairman Bernard Flouquet (pictured).

The group is recommending that the further research be carried out on the full economic, social and environmental implications of a 30% reduction in CO2 emissions.