UK starts review to ensure pro-growth delivery of net zero goal

The UK government today launched a review aimed at ensuring that the delivery of the country’s legally binding net zero target by 2050 is pro-growth and pro-business.

The review was promised by the UK’s new prime minister, Liz Truss, earlier this month as she set out her plans to tackle soaring energy prices.

Commissioned by Business and Energy Secretary Jacob Rees-Mogg, the swift review will be led by former Energy Minister Chris Skidmore, who will provide the government with a report, including recommendations, by the end of the year. Skidmore will consult with consumers, investors, industrial leaders and experts in different areas such as energy, land use and transport and will also hold roundtables across the country.

The review is being launched a year after the government released its Net Zero Strategy. In its announcement, the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy said that since then, factors such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the record-high energy prices and high inflation make it crucial for the UK to achieve net zero without exporting industry and emissions overseas.

“The government remains committed to reaching our net zero emissions targets, but with Russia weaponising energy across Europe we must make sure we do so in a way that increases energy security and does not place undue burdens on businesses or consumers,” said Rees Mogg.

“This review seeks to ‘double down’ on how we can ensure that our energy transition happens at the same time as maximising the economic opportunity for businesses and households across the country, providing huge opportunities for innovation, investment, exports and jobs,” commented Skidmore.

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