During the King’s State Opening of Parliament on Wednesday, we learned that the government’s proposed Energy Independence Bill will go ahead, as well as other energy-related legislation.
With Labour’s return to power after a 14-year absence, the UK is set to see a significant shift in energy and climate policy.
Here, we’ll discuss what the Energy Independence Act will entail and other energy-related bills announced during the King’s Speech. We’ll also consider where things go from here.
A Look At The Energy Independence Act
The Energy Independence Act will create the legal framework needed for new energy and climate-related policies. It was one of the key highlights during the King’s Speech earlier this week, the first of such for King Charles III.
Among the key aspects featured in Labour’s Energy Independence Bill (a.k.a. the GB Energy Bill) is the creation of the publicly-owned Great British Energy initiative.
This company is set to work with local authorities, energy companies and co-operatives to establish thousands of clean energy projects. This will include a mix of solar, onshore wind and hydropower installations.
Labour intends to provide GB Energy with £8.3 billion through the course of parliament. Labour wants GB Energy to enhance national energy security and cut UK bills permanently. While GB Energy’s HQ is to be set up in Scotland, we do not yet know where exactly.
Ultimately, the goal is to turn the UK into a superpower in clean energy. The government aims to support clean energy production, distribution and supply through GB Energy and additional steps. Notably, Labour is targeting 100% clean UK electricity by 2030.
Further details regarding GB Energy and new energy plans in general will be announced, likely in the weeks and months ahead.
What Else Featured In The King’s Speech
Along with the GB Energy Bill, the King’s Speech highlighted Labour’s ‘Sustainable Aviation Fuel Bill’. As an act, such legislation will provide a revenue support mechanism to aid the production of sustainable aviation fuel.
The Planning and Infrastructure Bill will also support the growth of renewables in the UK. The primary focuses of the bill include delivering more infrastructure and housing opportunities nationwide and the construction of top-quality infrastructure.
Notably, when passed, it will support the growth of renewable energy use in the UK. This legislation will also help to upgrade the national grid.
The King’s Speech discussed other unrelated bills such as the Skills England Bill, Tobacco and Vapes Bill and Budget Responsibility Bill.
‘Decade Of National Renewal’
In the lead up to the July 4th election, now Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer had emphasised his ambition to create a ‘decade of national renewal’.
Along with securing re-election in the late 2020s, this objective would need bold steps toward a national energy transformation.
This Labour government is eyeing cleaner and more affordable energy in the years ahead. And in time we’ll have an idea of how viable and effective Labour’s energy plans are.
Ultimately, the Energy Independence Act will play a major role in setting the stage for Labour’s vision. Similar legislation, both present and future will also contribute significantly and help determine whether or not Starmer’s aspirations can be achieved.