The Labour Party has revealed plans to enhance the renewable energy sector in the UK by doubling onshore wind, tripling solar, and quadrupling offshore wind capacities.
Ed Miliband, the shadow secretary of state for climate change and net zero, disclosed these plans during his address at the Labour Party conference.
He stated, “I am proud that Keir Starmer’s [Leader of the Labour Party] 2030 mission is for the greatest investment in homegrown energy in British history. We’ll double onshore wind. We’ll treble solar. We’ll quadruple offshore wind. We’ll invest in nuclear and hydrogen and carbon capture and tidal power.”
This announcement comes after a period of scrutiny directed at the current government’s approach to renewable energy, including plans to restrict the installation of solar panels on farm land. In 2015, a de facto ban on new onshore wind projects was imposed, which has been a point of contention among many MPs. Although the government unveiled plans to relax this ban in England as of September 2023, critics within the energy sector argue that the measures fall short of adequately supporting the industry.
Labour’s commitment to amplifying onshore and quadrupling offshore wind capacity appears to resonate with those advocating for the reversal of the aforementioned legislation.
The plans to treble the generation capacity of solar are especially welcome. If properly thought out and implemented correctly, this could see a boost for businesses and homeowners who can reduce their energy bills and reliance on the grid by installing solar panels on their property.
Additionally, Labour has introduced a broader initiative dubbed “rewire Britain”, aiming to mobilise £200 billion of private investment for the development of a clean energy grid. A key component of this initiative is the establishment of a publicly-owned energy company, GB Energy. This entity is envisioned to coordinate with transmission operators in initiating a “super-tender” to establish a grid supply chain.
Miliband expressed that Labour’s energy policy aims to regain control over the UK’s energy system to ensure clean power and energy independence. Through GB Energy, Labour intends to create a grid infrastructure that could potentially reduce energy bills for households and businesses.
What Next?
As always, the future is impossible to predict and the fine details of any such plans need to be ironed out. If they do come to fruition it would be a big step towards a carbon neutral future. If you’re looking to take the next steps to a greener lifestyle, then get in touch to find out how Purelec Energy can help you.