What is Corbyn’s High-Tech Green Economy?

With the likes of fracking and nuclear power big on the agendas of some political parties, Jeremy Corbyn looks set to take Labour in a different direction. Green energy is a huge part of reducing climate change that has been largely ignored by the British government to date. So what does his plan include, and can it deliver the change we need?

A broader plan

As part of his Labour leadership campaign for re-election, Corbyn has set out a ten-point plan of action. It includes a housebuilding drive, more rigid workers’ rights and proper NHS funding. A big part of the plan, however, is the introduction of UK infrastructure to support green energy. His publicly-owned National Investment Bank will put £500 billion into new industries, of which green energy is a central feature.

The focal point of his initiative is running services for the public, rather than the profit of private companies. High-speed broadband, transport (particularly trains), housing and energy could thrive under public ownership, with profits going back into improving these services.

Energy potential

Not sure where to start with green energy? Solar energy is a prime example. With 60 years of research it’s actually one of the more established methods. Similarly, wind energy is a well-known method. They are both weather reliant though, and don’t perform to their maximum potential all year round. New breakthroughs like Pavegen and Roadgen, which work on harvesting energy from movement on the world’s pavements and roads, are actually far more efficient.

The benefits of investing in these services doesn’t just stop at avoiding global warming either. There are significant financial gains to be made. In a nationalised system, the public would feel the benefit of these gains. And building the infrastructure to create green energy in Britain means the country is less reliant on expensive fuel imports. The project to build this infrastructure also creates a vast amount of skilled work.

Success story

For evidence of financial and environmental success from green energy, you only have to look at Germany. Back in 2006, they built 820 biogas systems. Biogas is a green energy produced by breaking down organic matter. With cutting edge technical installations, it’s a perfect example of creating a high-tech green economy. Germany is now the number one biogas energy producer in the world and the technological leader in the field too. ‘Biogas – Energy to Reckon With’ explores the world of this fascinating source of sustainable energy.