The UK surface passenger transport sector: Energy consumption and policy options for conservation

Abstract

The paper describes a study of the UK surface passenger transport sector whose main objectives were to investigate the pattern of present and future energy consumption and to provide a preliminary options to reduce energy use. Analysis shows the dominance of travel by private car in energy consumption patterns. Forecasts of energy consumption are then presented for four alternative future as a basis for evaluating long-term energy-saving options. This evaluation suggests that the most attractive policy relates to changes in private vehicle technology. However, there is considerable uncertainty about the outcome of this and other policy options.