A “portfolio approach” that factors nuclear and carbon capture storage alongside renewables is the solution for low carbon energy, the Government has been advised.

Renewables could make up 30% of UK energy needs by 2030, with scope to provide 45% if technology costs fall, concludes a new report released today by the Committee on Climate Change.

The UK should be using nuclear while it is a cheaper option, and trimming offshore wind power, which is currently more expensive, suggests The Renewables Energy Review.

Lord Adair Turner, chairman of the CCC told BBC Radio 4’s Today show that “the offshore wind at the moment is more expensive than either onshore or nuclear.”

“Onshore wind is increasingly becoming cost-competitive with fossil fuels and if people were willing to accept a bit more onshore versus offshore wind that would reduce the cost.”

The report also suggests that more investment in less mature renewables technology is needed through the 2020s.