The Liberal Democrat conference has approved a motion that allows for a windfall tax on operators of existing nuclear power stations.
The proceeds will be used to help consumers, especially those in low-income households, adapt to higher energy prices, the motions states.
The plan to recover through taxation "the profits they make solely as a result of the introduction of the carbon price floor from April 2013" formed just one part of a wide-ranging motion on the green economy.
Other measures approved by delegates at the conference in Birmingham include placing "green growth" at the heart of government strategies for recovery from recession, more investment capital, skills, training, design and manufacturing capacity and ensuring that "an increasing proportion of the country’s waste" is used as a resource.
It also recognises the importance of the UK’s agricultural sector as a source of sustainable materials for manufacturing and diversifying the rural economy to increase both food and other outputs
The motion calls for assurances that the Green Investment Bank will able to play its full part in the green growth strategy, including by introducing legislation in the next parliamentary session to establish the Bank's remit and guarantee its permanence and independence.
The Lib Dems have made a commitment to "a zero-carbon Britain".
Today's motion was moved by Stephen Williams, Lib Dem MP for Bristol West.
"The new Geen Bank will be vital to broadening our energy sources and boosting investment in manufacturing and technology," he said after his motion was approved by conference.
"This is a serious programme which will have a direct impact on the development of the UK as an international provider of green solutions.
"The fund will grow from an initial £3 billion, and unlock a further £15 billion of private sector funding over the next four years."

Dods Parliamentary Communications Ltd
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