A report from the Commons science and technology committee has slammed the government's energy white paper for ducking tough decisions on renewable energy and greenhouse gases.

It says that "while the white paper is green enough, it has a thick yellow streak running right through it".

Forum Response: Environmental Services Association

Dirk Hazell, chief executive for ESA, told ePolitix.com:"ESA welcomes interest in combined heat and power technologies, but remains concerned that the energy white paper does not provide the much-needed impetus to encourage energy generation from renewable sources in order to secure a sustainable long-term supply of energy for the UK.

"Given the importance of waste as an energy source - almost half the renewable energy generated in the UK is derived from municipal solid waste and there is considerable potential for increase - ESA is saddened that waste is mentioned only briefly in the paper.

"If the UK is to comply with international agreements signed by the present government, such as the Kyoto Protocol, it is essential that the government acts now to provide an efficient economic and regulatory framework and planning system and ensures the availability of appropriate and cost-effective grid connections."

Forum Response: BEAMA

Dr Howard Porter, director for BEAMAenergy and BEAMA, told ePolitix.com: "The publication of the energy white paper is to be welcomed as the first comprehensive energy policy for the UK. However BEAMAenergy members were disappointed that there was not more firm emission reduction targets included.

"Representing manufacturers of controls and metering equipment BEAMAenergy needs to guide and advise it's members on their decisions on new product development.

"Without firm targets it is very difficult to give hard advice, and thus almost impossible for companies to make long term investment decisions. BEAMAenergy members believe that the promotion of higher environmental targets in the UK can lead to increased sales and profits for UK based companies; but they need to be given sufficient guidance by government.

"It is hoped that over the next few months as part of the development of implementation plans, the government will consult with the wide energy and buildings industry to enable firmer targets to be set and to provide better guidance for industry."