Energy Bill Chair Scrutiny Highlights Role Of Dialogue In Gov’t Energy/Climate Targets

Written by

Jennifer Warren

Last updated: October 27, 2024

Energy Security & Net Zero Committee Bill’s Chair and Labour MP Bill Esterson is positioned to scrutinise the government proposal to strengthen these efforts.

This follows the Climate Change Committee advising that the Energy Secretary advocate for a UK carbon emissions reduction of 81% before 2035.

What Esterson And The Climate Committee Have Said

A UK Parliament Committees’ news article published Saturday noted Esterson’s emphasis on the climate and economic benefits of a green energy transition.

Esterson also highlighted the need for the UK to re-position itself as a global leader in clean energy once again.

The Climate Change Committee has recognised the beneficial nature of clean energy for employment, lowering energy costs to the consumer, addressing climate change and hitting our climate targets, such as carbon net zero by 2050.

An approximate four-fifths reduction in UK carbon emissions by 2035 as proposed by the committee is certainly an ambitious target. So is the government’s goal of 100% clean and affordable electricity by 2030, however.

Current Efforts And Future Needs

All that said, the government has already taken significant strides to fortify their efforts in lowering emissions, reducing bills and improving the UK’s energy self-reliance.

Some of the steps already taken include the creation of GB Energy and the National Energy System Operator or NESO.

The government also increased available funds for solar, wind and tidal power via the Annual Renewables Auction.

Also, earlier this month, the government announced a new investment support scheme to support long duration electricity storage or LDES facilities. These facilities store energy produced by renewables so that it can be sent on to the grid later.

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While it is clear that the government is taking a whole host of steps to achieve their clean energy, climate and employment goals, intelligent decision-making and an efficient and smart use of funding and resources will be key to success.

Lastly, the role of figures such as Labour MP Esterson will be key to ensuring that the government stays on track and makes the most of their proposals.