UKPOL.CO.UK

Tag: Energy Security and Net Zero Department

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK to host new London Energy Security Conference to rewire global energy resilience [August 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK to host new London Energy Security Conference to rewire global energy resilience [August 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 10 August 2023.

    The UK will host a new global energy security conference.

    • Landmark conference in London will bring together international governments and industry leaders on energy security
    • conference will take place in the Spring, to boost international co-operation and support countries to speed up the deployment of clean and resilient energy infrastructure
    • builds on government efforts to bolster UK energy security, including accelerating renewables and nuclear, and supporting North Sea oil and gas production

    The UK will host a new global energy security conference next year, bringing together countries from around the world to shore up critical energy supplies and make the system more resilient to shocks.

    Energy Security Secretary Grant Shapps will invite senior government ministers and industry bosses to the landmark London Energy Security Conference, around the time of the second anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

    The war in Ukraine, and other historic shocks such as the oil crisis of the 1970s, show how interconnected global energy security and critical supply chains are, with the impacts hurting consumers the world over. To prevent this happening again, the UK is convening this new conference to enhance international cooperation and build global resilience against these shocks.

    The conference will take place in the Spring and focus on:

    • building energy resilience nationally and internationally
    • speeding up the deployment of clean and resilient energy infrastructure
    • advancing technologies and innovation to promote greater energy independence
    • cooperating internationally to boost energy security around the world
    • helping provide consumers and businesses with cheaper, more secure energy

    The London Energy Conference follows a significant programme of international engagement by the Energy Security Secretary. In recent months, Grant Shapps has agreed greater collaboration on visits to the United States, Japan, South Korea, India, France and the North Sea Summit in Belgium. These have been on top of holding key talks with global leaders including at the COP27 negotiations at Sharm El-Sheikh, the G7 Energy and Climate Ministers Meeting in Sapporo, the G20 Energy talks in Goa and the UK’s recent leadership in hosting the Ukraine Recovery Conference in London.

    Energy Security Secretary Grant Shapps said:

    As history has shown, including more recently with the Russian invasion of Ukraine, global energy security and supply is interconnected. Shockwaves quickly travel around the world and hurt consumers and businesses by sending global prices soaring.

    We acted swiftly to protect the British public, providing unprecedented energy bills support, cutting off all Russian gas supplies and setting out our blueprint for boosting homegrown energy production to power up Britain.

    But energy security does not stop at our borders – our landmark London Energy Security Conference will bring together international governments and industry leaders to help rewire the global energy system and build collective resilience.

    Next year’s London Energy Security Conference will build on the UK’s existing work to boost domestic energy security – with the UK’s decarbonisation leadership to reach net zero by diversifying its energy mix also bringing benefits for global energy security as well. The government has set out plans to power up Britain, by scaling up the deployment of cheap renewables and boosting our homegrown supply of nuclear, while also maximising North Sea production.

    Recent steps taken include:

    This has come alongside the UK working together with allies across Europe, G7 countries, and across the world to accelerate the global transition to clean, reliable sources of power and energy efficiency – both to improve energy security and tackle climate change.

    The UK is also well-placed to bring the international community together on energy, building on world-leading achievements in delivering cleaner, cheaper renewable technologies.

    This includes being the first major economy to legislate for net zero, and between 1990 and 2021, cutting emissions by 48% while growing the economy by 65% – decarbonising faster than any other G7 country.

    The UK has increased the amount of energy coming from renewables from 6.7% in 2010 to 41.5% in 2022, is home to 4 largest offshore wind farms in the world and last year, saw the biggest increase ever in the installation of offshore wind capacity.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Government welcomes report on electricity networks as critical to Britain’s energy security [August 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Government welcomes report on electricity networks as critical to Britain’s energy security [August 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 4 August 2023.

    Energy Security Secretary Grant Shapps welcomes report from Nick Winser, the UK’s Electricity Networks Commissioner, and will consider the recommendations before presenting an action plan.

    • Electricity Networks Commissioner Nick Winser review will help UK take full advantage of its renewable energy success
    • independent report outlines ‘vital and achievable’ plans to transform Britain’s electricity transmission system and get more wind and nuclear energy into people’s homes and businesses
    • report comes as government proposes new powers to protect energy system from national security and cyber security risks

    Today’s report by Electricity Networks Commissioner Nick Winser sets out plans to bolster the country’s energy security and ensure the UK is taking full advantage of its position as a world leader in renewables.

    Since 2010, the UK has been hugely successful in increasing investment in renewable energy generation by 500%. To ensure the country is taking full advantage, remains equipped to harness the opportunities of renewable energy, and gets the additional supply of clean power to homes and businesses, the government asked Nick Winser to carry out his review.

    Energy Security Secretary Grant Shapps welcomes the report and will consider the recommendations before presenting an action plan later this year to strengthen the UK’s energy security, drive down household bills and grow the economy.

    Putin’s illegal invasion of Ukraine has had a devastating effect on global energy markets and accelerated the need for more home-grown energy sources, including renewables, nuclear and North Sea oil and gas.

    Today’s report suggests that new power lines can be built in half the time and confirms that, while challenging, speeding up the delivery of strategic electricity transmission lines is “vital and achievable”. A set of recommendations has been put forward to reduce current timescales for delivering onshore transmission network infrastructure to 7 years to help deliver energy security and net zero more quickly. The government will respond to these proposals later this year.

    Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero Grant Shapps, said:

    The UK is leading the world on renewable energy and decarbonising faster than any other country in the G7. We must ensure we are taking full advantage of our success and getting the increased supply of homegrown, clean energy that we have at our fingertips to people’s homes and businesses for years to come.

    That is why we asked Nick Winser to carry out this review – I welcome his report and am grateful for his work.

    This is another important step as we continue to reform our energy system to drive down bills, grow the economy and ensure tyrants like Putin can never again use energy as a weapon of war.

    Minister for Networks and Nuclear Andrew Bowie, said:

    With renewable energy already making up around 40% of our total electricity supply, the UK has a world-class renewables sector. We are determined to match this with a world-class system for delivering this growing supply to where it is needed.

    We will be considering Nick Winser’s recommendations closely as we work towards achieving an energy system led by renewables, nuclear and other clean, home-grown technologies.

    Carl Trowell, President, UK Strategic Infrastructure at National Grid, said:

    This report from the Electricity Networks Commissioner is both timely and welcome, following our recent launch of The Great Grid Upgrade, the largest overhaul of the electricity transmission grid in generations, with significant new infrastructure planned across England and Wales.

    There is no time to waste, implementing the proposals and progressing the energy transition at pace is the surest route to more affordable bills, greater energy resilience and a more energy independent UK.

    Rebecca Barnett, Ofgem’s Director of Networks said:

    We need bold reforms to accelerate the delivery of electricity transmission infrastructure needed to end the reliance on fossil fuels for power by 2035.

    Nick Winser sets out an ambitious, highly detailed programme to remove barriers to planning and delivering transmission network and plugging renewable generation into the grid.

    This builds on Ofgem’s work to establish strategic national and regional planning; unlock and accelerate infrastructure investment; and end delays in grid connections to homes, businesses and public services.

    Today’s report comes as the government publishes new proposals to grant Secretary of State for Energy Security powers to direct the Future System Operator (FSO) – the new public body that will be tasked with planning a decarbonised energy system – to take action to address risks to national security.

    The new powers could be deployed if a company, contracting with the FSO, is found to threaten the resilience, safety or security of the UK’s energy system, such as through cyber-attacks and supply chain vulnerabilities.

    These actions could include removing or preventing certain suppliers’ involvement or equipment in our energy supply chain, such as by directing FSO to not contract with third party suppliers to ensure the security of the system.

    The new powers would be used as a last resort option and are in addition to the 2021 National Security and Investment Act, which gives the government the power to address investment and ownership risks to national security.

    They also come on top of a new role for the FSO to use its expertise to plan for certain events that could harm the country’s energy resilience – such as extreme weather or flooding. The FSO will act as an expert adviser to the government on making the UK’s energy system as resilient as possible against such shocks.

    In the coming months, the energy regulator Ofgem will consult on new FSO licence conditions with the eventual aim of including this in the FSO’s new licence conditions under the Energy Bill powers.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Hundreds of thousands of heat network customers to benefit from fairer energy prices [August 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Hundreds of thousands of heat network customers to benefit from fairer energy prices [August 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 4 August 2023.

    New plans for heat network customers to receive fairer prices for cleaner heating.

    • New rules for heat network customers to receive fairer prices for cleaner heating
    • proposals will also better protect vulnerable customers
    • consultation launched to shape and improve the future of heat networks while bolstering our energy security

    Hundreds of thousands of heat network customers could benefit from fairer energy prices under new plans unveiled by government today (4 August).

    Under the proposals, homes and businesses supplied by heat networks would receive greater consumer protections currently only afforded to those on traditional gas and electricity contracts.

    This would ensure fairer prices through their inclusion in a potential future price cap on energy bills, consistent standards for quality of service and supply of heat, backed up with regular and clear bills.

    From 2025, Ofgem will be able to step in where homes and businesses have problems with disproportionate pricing, poor customer service and poor reliability.

    Ofgem’s actions could also include fines for poor service and ensuring operators pay compensation to customers if there is a supply outage.

    People in vulnerable circumstances, such as the elderly or those living with health conditions, would also be better protected, with heat network operators required to keep a register of these customers.

    Lord Callanan, Minister for Energy Efficiency and Green Finance, said:

    We’re investing millions to build new heat networks, reducing emissions and providing low-cost heating to communities across the country.

    Heat networks allow people to heat their homes more cleanly, while cutting their costs and reducing carbon emissions. They are also an important tool in our push for greater energy security and independence.

    As more homes and businesses are connected to these innovative systems, it’s only right we ensure consumers are properly protected, pay a fair price for their energy, and are given the best service possible.

    Heat networks can supply heating and hot water by unlocking large scale renewable and recycled heat found underground or generated through manufacturing, providing low-cost energy to thousands of people.

    The consultation will contribute to the target of 20% of the country’s heating being supplied by heat networks by 2050.

    Views from consumer groups and industry will also be used to help shape the regulatory framework that Ofgem will use to monitor and enforce consumer protection regulations.

    A regulated and trusted sector where standards are harmonised and where heat network developers can benefit from rights and powers to help them develop will also attract greater investment.

    In May, the government announced £22 million of funding to develop the UK’s first system drawing heat from deep underground in Cornwall. The Langarth Deep Geothermal Heat Network will use geothermal energy from hot granite rocks beneath Cornwall to heat 3,800 local homes and public facilities in the region.

    This was one of 7 ground-breaking heat network projects across England that received a share of £91 million through the Green Heat Network Fund.

    The government has also launched the £32 million Heat Network Efficiency Scheme to make vital upgrades to old and inefficient heat networks, providing thousands of homes in England and Wales with cheaper, greener energy.

    The Heat networks consumer protection consultation closes on 27 October 2023.

    Stakeholder quotes

    Caroline Bragg, Interim CEO of the Association for Decentralised Energy:

    We commend the government’s decision to launch a consultation with Ofgem on consumer protections for heat networks — a milestone long awaited by our sector.

    If the UK is to successfully deliver on net zero, zero carbon heat networks must indisputably take centre stage as the primary heating solution for buildings, and so it is critical that the millions of businesses and households that will benefit from them are properly supported.

    A low carbon, resilient and affordable energy future hinges on our collective commitment to clearing the barriers that stand in the way of widespread heat network adoption and rapidly scaling up deployment across the UK – to enable that, what we need to see next is regulation and zoning coming together to propel the exponential growth of heat networks.

    Tom Woodward, Association Secretary, The UK District Energy Association:

    Whilst we know that many customers connected to heat networks have received a good quality service at a fair price, we welcome this consultation on behalf of our 160 members as the next step on the journey to the introduction of sector wide regulation, which will support those many customers who have not received this fair deal and quality of service they should expect from their heat network.

    Stephen Knight, Director, Heat Trust

    As the national consumer champion for heat networks, Heat Trust has long campaigned for the regulation of the sector and we therefore welcome this important consultation. Heat networks have a key role to play in the decarbonisation of heating in the UK, but customer experiences must improve if consumers are to gain confidence in district and communal heating systems.

    Whilst many heat network customers get a reliable and value-for-money heating system, sadly, too many do not. Too often customers experience high prices, unreliable systems, and poor customer service.

    It is therefore critically important that this consultation helps deliver regulations that achieve tangible improvements in terms of price protection, reliability and service quality and we urge all those with an interest in the sector to respond.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Energy security boost with multi-million backing for renewables [August 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Energy security boost with multi-million backing for renewables [August 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 3 August 2023.

    Energy Security Secretary Grant Shapps announces £22 million uplift for flagship scheme.

    • £22 million boost for government’s flagship renewables scheme, making available contracts for renewable power generation potentially worth billions of pounds in total over the scheme’s lifetime
    • funding for established technologies such as solar and offshore wind, some of the cheapest domestic energy sources available, will ensure Britain remains a global leader in renewable energy
    • the Contracts for Difference (CfD) scheme plays a key role in boosting the UK’s energy security, growing our economy and powering more of Britain from Britain

    A multi-million-pound boost for cleaner, more secure energy will make Britain the ‘first choice’ for investors, Grant Shapps said today.

    The Energy Security Secretary today announced a £22 million increase in government backing for renewables through the flagship Contracts for Difference scheme – taking the total budget to £227 million for this auction.

    The scheme – launched in 2014 – is the government’s main system for supporting low-carbon electricity generation and has already led to an increase in the proportion of the UK’s energy coming from renewables.

    In 2022, renewables fuelled around 42% of the UK’s electricity generation – up from 7% in 2010 – compared to around 21% in the US and 23% in Japan.

    In the first quarter of 2023, renewables generated a record 48% of our electricity, all making strong progress towards our targets to deliver a decarbonised power sector by 2035 and net zero by 2050.

    The increased funding combined with the introduction of annual auctions this year, will boost investments in Britain’s world-leading renewable industry, while strengthening the UK’s energy security, fostering growth in the country’s green industries and reducing exposure to volatile global gas prices.

    Energy Security Secretary Grant Shapps said:

    Putin’s barbaric action against Ukraine made clear our need to do whatever it takes to bolster our energy security.

    Today’s funding through our flagship Contracts for Difference scheme – the lifeblood of our renewables industry for nearly a decade – will help grow our economy by making Britain the first choice for investors in renewable energy projects and secure skilled jobs for future generations.

    This will be the case for established technologies like solar, and new innovations like floating offshore wind and, alongside our backing for oil and gas, carbon capture and our revival in nuclear, will ensure we can help power more of Britain from Britain for decades to come.

    Today’s new funding for the current round (AR5) will mean:

    • an increased budget for established technologies such as solar and offshore wind – from £170 million to £190 million
    • an increase in the budget for emerging technologies such as floating offshore wind – up from £35 million to £37 million
    • maintaining £10 million ring-fenced budget for tidal stream projects

    This funding boost is expected to send a powerful signal to the industry, increasing developer confidence in the sector every year and enhancing the UK’s reputation as among the most attractive places to invest and grow the economy, with nearly 25,000 jobs directly supported by renewable electricity sectors in 2021.

    Today’s increase comes as Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden visits Able Seaton Port to announce the installation of the first of over 2 hundred 260m tall wind turbines is installed at Dogger Bank – becoming the world’s largest offshore windfarm. A specialised floating platform, taller than the Eiffel Tower, has been created to install the wind turbines onto the seabed.

    When complete, the 277 turbines, which include British steel manufactured in Wales and processed in Corby and Hartlepool, will be capable of powering the equivalent of up to 6 million homes annually. Dogger Bank is being built in 3 phases – Dogger Bank A, B and C – by renewables developers SSE Renewables, Equinor and Vargronn.

    This comes as the register revealing the most serious risks to the United Kingdom, the National Risk Register, is published today as part of government plans to better prepare the public and businesses for the threats facing the country, including to energy security.

    Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden said:

    Today we’ve published the latest National Risk Register, showing the many challenges we face to keep Britain safe in an uncertain world – like the risk of disruption to global energy supplies.

    Backing British renewables will tackle that risk and undermine Putin’s energy ransom. Which is why I’m with SSE in Hartlepool today as we install the first wind turbine at the new Dogger Bank offshore wind farm, generating cheap, clean energy to power millions of British homes.

    This latest financial backing will help to replace expensive imported fossil fuels with cheaper, cleaner, domestic sources of energy. Building a more secure energy future with thriving green industries will have the knock-on effect of helping to grow the UK’s economy and create jobs across the country, with billions of pounds in private investment.

    The Contracts for Difference scheme has already helped accelerate plans to diversify, decarbonise and domesticate the UK’s energy supplies, with the last round (AR4) securing around 11GW of low carbon capacity – enough to generate sufficient electricity to power 12 million British homes through nearly 100 clean technology projects.

    The scheme supports the deployment of renewable power right across Britain, with the scheme so far having awarded contracts to 52 projects in Scotland, which represents around 30% of all CfD projects. In Wales, the scheme has so far awarded contracts to 9 projects, totalling around 260MW of capacity.

    Minister of State for Energy Security and Net Zero Graham Stuart said:

    Our successful, world-leading scheme has accelerated the roll-out of renewable, homegrown energy.

    Today’s increase will improve energy security and maximise the potential of the scheme. This will result in investment, a stronger renewables sector and growth to our economy.

    Neil McDermott, CEO of the Low Carbon Contracts Company (LCCC), said:

    The £22 million boost to the Contracts for Difference (CfD) Allocation Round 5 reaffirms the government’s commitment towards transforming Britain into a global leader in renewable energy. Contracts for Difference plays a crucial role in enhancing energy security, driving economic prosperity and propelling us towards a more sustainable future.  LCCC currently manages a portfolio of 167 CfDs, and is excited to deliver AR5, furthering our vision to accelerate the delivery of net zero.

    Claire Dykta, Head of Markets for the National Grid Electricity System Operator, said:

    Following our evaluation of qualifying projects we welcome the Secretary of State’s decision to revise the budget for Allocation Round 5.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Industry and government agree to seize the “immense opportunities ahead” as Britain builds a world-leading energy sector [August 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Industry and government agree to seize the “immense opportunities ahead” as Britain builds a world-leading energy sector [August 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 2 August 2023.

    Energy firms met today with Secretary of State Grant Shapps during Energy Week to strengthen the UK’s plans for energy security and economic growth.

    Energy Security Secretary Grant Shapps today hailed the “immense opportunities” available for companies and communities as the UK continues to invest in renewable and other clean technologies and strengthen national energy security.

    At an industry roundtable in Downing Street today (Wednesday 2 August) energy firms across renewables, oil and gas and nuclear all outlined projects worth as much as up to £100 billion, to be built across the UK over the next decade.

    Government and industry also agreed on the importance of working together across the entire energy sector to:

    • boost the UK’s competitiveness and investment into home-grown clean energy
    • create and safeguard jobs across the country
    • reduce energy bills for consumers and households
    • make progress towards net zero

    The Secretary of State also outlined the government’s new powers to protect UK energy supplies.

    Speaking after the event Energy Security Secretary Grant Shapps said:

    We stand at a crucial point in the UK’s energy history: achieving our goals depends on continued close collaboration with the leaders in the industry.

    This was the shared consensus at today’s industry roundtable, which I had the privilege of convening, where we discussed the path to strengthen the UK’s energy security and boost economic growth.

    The consensus among energy firms was clear – there are immense opportunities ahead and these can only be seized if the UK government, industry and regulators work together across the sector to accelerate investment into renewables, bring down bills and deliver on net zero.

    The investment projects discussed today will not only of safeguard hundreds of thousands of skilled jobs across the country but ensure a resilient and sustainable energy future for the Britain.

    Attendee comments

    Keith Anderson, CEO, ScottishPower said:

    We welcomed the opportunity to hear the Secretary of State’s continued commitment to the UK’s world leading position on tackling climate change and delivering net zero, while growing the economy.  As one of the biggest renewables and electricity network investors, ScottishPower is helping drive that growth, creating over 1,000 job in 12 months alone and we look forward to continuing that for decades to come.

    Tom Glover, RWE’s UK Country Chair said of today’s meeting:

    With an ambition to invest up to £15 billion in the UK electricity market by 2030, it was good to discuss the issues facing the industry at the roundtable today with Grant Shapps, the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, and very reassuring to hear him emphasise the government’s commitment to net zero targets and the UK’s carbon budgets.

    We emphasised the need for more and regular engagement between government and industry, the continued commitment to net zero and the requirement for interim targets for the electricity sector. We also welcomed the announcement of the latest Track 2 CCS transport and storage projects, and encouraged the government to go further and faster with other CCS projects and CO2 shipping around the UK.

    David Whitehouse, Offshore Energies UK said:

    I welcomed the opportunity to represent Offshore Energies UK’s membership of over 400 firms at Number 10 today. These companies’ investments in innovative projects across the sector, from oil and gas to offshore wind, carbon capture and hydrogen are the key getting to net zero and beyond.

    Today’s energy summit re-iterated the UK’s commitment to achieving net zero, and recognised the key role that domestic oil and gas production and carbon capture and storage will play in that journey. Through ongoing collaboration and pragmatic policy, I am convinced that the UK can unlock the private investment necessary for an energy future that provides security, affordability, creates highly skilled jobs, and tackles climate change. The offshore energy sector’s proven track record over the last 5 decades shows what we can achieve when working collaboratively.

    Jon Butterworth, CEO of National Gas, said:

    Gas is at the heart of the UK’s energy security. There were 260 days in 2022 where gas provided over 30% of the nation’s electricity, ensuring the lights were kept on, whilst also keeping our citizens warm and industries fuelled – protecting thousands of jobs and half a million businesses. We welcomed today’s discussion with the Secretary of State and industry leaders, and we will continue to work with the government to strengthen the resilience of our energy sector.

    Emma Pinchbeck, CEO Energy UK, said:

    Our industry’s united view is that achieving net zero and energy security go hand in hand, and we welcome the Secretary of State’s renewed commitment to that.

    The best and quickest way to tackle those challenges, and keep bills affordable for customers, is to rapidly expand our own sources of cheap, clean power alongside reducing demand. Making more homes energy efficient is a no-brainer, and the potential that greater flexibility offers for consumers and the wider energy system will bring down costs for us all. We also need to focus on the immediate issue of support for those customers facing a struggle this winter to afford energy bills that remain much higher than 18 months ago.

    Enabling all this means having the right environment to attract the necessary investment in face of increasing global competition, developing supply chains and workforce skills and tackling issues around the planning system and grid connections that can hold up the rapid progress we all want to see. Our industry is fully committed to working with government to address all these because we all see the huge opportunities on offer for our economy, our environment and our customers.

    Ruth Herbert, Chief Executive of the Carbon Capture and Storage Association, said:

    Today’s meeting was an important opportunity to discuss with energy industry partners how we can collectively deliver secure, affordable, decarbonised energy, with CCUS critical to achieving this and driving future economic growth.

    We welcome the government’s CCUS announcements this week, which deliver momentum to the industry and a decarbonisation pathway to two important industrial regions. But we still need clarity on the timeline of support if we are to successfully store 20-30Mt of CO2 by 2030 in line with government’s net zero ambitions, and ensure we are not left behind by international rivals.

    Carbon capture is an essential part of the toolkit for the UK to reach its climate targets. It will decarbonise gas-generated electricity, which will enable more renewables on the system, and it will reduce emissions from critical industries such as steel and cement to continue to support tens of thousands of jobs and ensure domestic supply chain security.

    Dr Tony Ballance, Chief Strategy & Regulation Officer from Cadent said:

    I was pleased to represent Cadent, the largest gas distribution company at the Energy Summit today. It was good to hear first-hand from the Secretary of State about the Government’s plans for delivering future energy resilience and achieving net zero.

    I am pleased we were able to highlight the importance of hydrogen, and the need for a whole systems approach, in delivering these vital ambitions for the UK.

    David Bunch, Country Chair, Shell UK said:

    This was a productive meeting. Shell UK has already set out significant investment ambitions to support the country’s energy security and transition to a low-carbon energy system. The conditions for these investments are crucially dependent on fiscal stability, clarity of business models and ensuring shareholder value.

    RenewableUK’s Executive Director of Policy Ana Musat said:

    At a time when energy security, affordability and decarbonisation remain high on everyone’s agenda, the renewable energy sector welcomed the opportunity to meet with the Secretary of State to discuss the opportunities and challenges we face. There was widespread agreement of the need to improve the UK’s investment environment, as we’re facing very challenging economic conditions and strong international competition for supply chain, skills and investment.

    We are all aware that prioritising the roll-out of cheap, homegrown renewable energy projects is essential to strengthen Britain’s energy security. Wind and solar generate power cheaper than any other new energy source, so the government can improve investor confidence in this space by ensuring that the Contracts for Difference framework takes account of the economic pressures faced by the sector.

    In addition, we highlighted the need to ensure a consistent pipeline of renewable energy projects so that we can maximise the opportunities of supply chain investment in areas where the UK has a competitive advantage, such as floating wind, cables and blades. This will enable us to create more high quality well paid jobs, especially in coastal communities outside London and the south east – offshore wind alone is set to employ over 100,000 people by 2030. Every opinion poll shows strong public support for moving faster on renewables, so it’s essential that the government’s energy security strategy is centred on developing this sector.

    Linda Z Cook, CEO of Harbour Energy said:

    The North Sea oil and gas sector plays a critical role in UK domestic energy security. The sector is also leading the way with CCS which will enable the decarbonization of the power sector and other industrial sites and deliver the government’s target of capturing and storing 30 mtpa of CO2 by 2030.

    Earlier this week we saw Harbour’s CCS projects – Viking in the Humber and Acorn in northeast Scotland – both successfully awarded Track 2 status under the government’s carbon capture programme, evidence of how the existing skills, experience and infrastructure of those currently operating in the North Sea are going to be critical in the development of this new UK industry.

    However, in order to have the confidence we need to continue investing in these long-term, large-scale projects, we need a stable and sensible fiscal environment – and today’s meeting was an important opportunity to discuss that.

    Paul Spence, Director of Strategy and Corporate Affairs, EDF said:

    Improving energy efficiency, moving to electric vehicles and heat pumps, and investing in more low carbon wind, nuclear and solar electricity doesn’t just help the climate, it protects homes and businesses from global price spikes and ensures Britain has the power it needs. We want to accelerate delivery on all fronts.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Economic growth and energy security on the agenda as Shapps convenes Downing Street energy summit [August 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Economic growth and energy security on the agenda as Shapps convenes Downing Street energy summit [August 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 2 August 2023.

    Energy Security Secretary Grant Shapps meets with energy industry leaders in Downing Street.

    • Energy Security Secretary Grant Shapps meets with industry leaders to discuss the government’s energy security and business plans to invest over £100 billion, including to accelerate renewables, to help grow our economy
    • discussions include new powers to protect critical energy infrastructure from disruptive protest groups and maintain energy supply
    • summit hosted at No 10 Downing Street as part of government push to strengthen energy security, support jobs and attract investment in the UK’s energy industry

    Leaders of the UK’s energy industry will meet in Downing Street today to discuss their plans to collectively invest over £100 billion and create jobs around the country, working with government to boost energy security.

    Energy Security Secretary Grant Shapps will meet a wide range of energy companies – including EDF, SSE, Shell and bp, who collectively have multi-billion pound plans to invest in low and zero-carbon projects. Each of these will support thousands of jobs across the country, which could help reduce household energy bills while delivering cleaner, more secure sources of energy, to deliver on the ambition to have the lowest wholesale electricity prices in Europe by 2035.

    Mr Shapps will outline government measures to protect UK energy supplies from disruption both at home and abroad. He will highlight decisions to invest in home-grown energy sources – including renewables, a revival in nuclear power, and backing North Sea oil and gas.

    But he will also highlight measures to protect critical energy infrastructure from disruptive protests. This follows in the wake of protests such as those at the Kingsbury and Thurrock clusters of oil terminals and Grangemouth refinery.

    The Public Order Act now includes a new criminal offence of interfering with key national infrastructure – including oil refineries – aimed at preventing protests from causing or threatening public safety or serious disruption. It particularly addresses tactics that these protesters have used such as locking on and tunneling.

    Energy Security Secretary Grant Shapps said:

    We need to send the message loud and clear to the likes of Putin that we will never again be held to ransom with energy supply.  The companies I am meeting in Downing Street today will be at the heart of that.

    Energy industry leaders can see that this government will back home-grown, secure energy – whether that’s renewables, our revival in nuclear, or our support for our vital oil and gas industry in the North Sea.

    But it is a sad reality that we also need to protect our critical national infrastructure from disruptive protests.  Today I’ll be setting out what we are doing to achieve this and want to hear from the energy companies the vital work they are doing in this area.

    Energy firms have demonstrated their confidence to invest in the UK, and collectively the firms meeting at 10 Downing Street plan to invest tens of billions over the next decade in energy projects across the country. Some of these investment commitments include:

    • Shell UK aims to invest £20-25 billion in the UK energy system over the next 10 years. More than 75% of this is intended for low and zero-carbon products and services
    • bp intends to invest up to £18 billion in the UK’s energy system by the end of 2030
    • SSE plc have announced plans to invest £18 billion up to 2027 in low carbon infrastructure creating 1,000 new jobs every year to 2025. SSE’s plans could see it invest up to £40 billion across the decade to 2031-2032
    • National Grid plc will be investing over £16 billion in the 5-year period to 2026
    • EDF have outlined plans to invest £13 billion to 2025
    • RWE have an ambition to invest up to £15 billion in clean energy infrastructure in the UK by 2030
    • ScottishPower plan to invest £11 billion up to 2028 in critical green energy security infrastructure creating 1,000 jobs this year alone

    To provide greater reassurance and support to industry, the Energy Security Secretary will outline the range of measures the government is taking to protect energy infrastructure from intentional disruption, as well as maintaining the network’s strong resilience. This includes:

    • The Public Order Act, with specific powers coming into effect in July to protect critical infrastructure
    • working with the police to ensure protestors cannot gain unauthorised access to sites
    • the work of the Civil Nuclear Constabulary, whose 1,300 officers and 300 support staff operate to protect nuclear sites across England, Scotland and Wales

    The Energy Security Secretary will also discuss progress on major UK energy investment projects across renewable projects, oil and gas, new nuclear, and new technologies such as carbon capture.

    They include:

    • carbon capture – earlier this week, the Prime Minister announced 2 further projects in Humber and the North East of Scotland, which can move towards becoming clusters for this new technology – alongside 8 already being considered, and 2 existing clusters in the North East, and in the North West and Wales
    • oil and gas – the Prime Minister has also confirmed future licensing rounds will continue for the extraction of oil and gas in the North Sea – while the North Sea Transition Authority reports they have received over 115 bids from 76 companies in the latest licensing round
    • nuclear – companies can now register their interest with the UK’s new organisation, Great British Nuclear, to secure funding support to develop new technologies including Small Modular Reactors
    • offshore wind – the UK has the world’s largest operational wind farms off its shores, with plans for further development off the East Anglia Coast and at Dogger Bank in the North East which could collectively provide enough clean energy for over 6.5 million homes
  • PRESS RELEASE : Energy security push to boost economic growth [July 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Energy security push to boost economic growth [July 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 30 July 2023.

    Government to announce measures putting energy security at the heart of economic growth.

    • Prime Minister and Energy Security Secretary to lead efforts this week to strengthen UK’s energy independence
    • They will meet industry leaders from oil, gas and renewable sectors – to drive forward measures that safeguard national energy security and reduce reliance on hostile states
    • Builds on years of critical support for North Sea oil and gas, the UK’s world-leading track record on renewables and our international leadership against Putin’s invasion of Ukraine

    The Government will this week set out how it’s delivering on its energy security strategy plans to grow the economy and create jobs across the United Kingdom.

    Prime Minister Rishi Sunak will set out how the UK’s world-leading energy industry expertise will create jobs and grow the economy and ensure tyrants like Putin can never again use energy as a weapon to blackmail the UK.

    As part of the Government’s efforts to strengthen the UK’s energy independence, he will announce investment plans to put powering up Britain from Britain first – making the most of our country’s resources and reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels, by backing our oil and gas industry, investing in the latest clean technologies and isolating Putin’s regime from global energy markets.

    The Prime Minister and Energy Security Secretary Grant Shapps will meet energy industry leaders throughout the week – including oil and gas, renewables and nuclear businesses – to ensure the UK is capitalising on opportunities to bolster our energy infrastructure now, and boosting our long-term energy independence, security and prosperity in the years to come.

    The week will also include support for British innovation in new industries such as carbon capture and storage, and for cutting edge renewables across the country.

    Energy Security Secretary Grant Shapps said:

    Energy security is national security. Since Putin’s illegal invasion of Ukraine the Government has driven Russia from our energy market, paid around half of a typical family’s energy bill and grown our economy by driving forward major energy projects.

    This week we will go even further. Forging ahead with critical measures to power up Britain from Britain – including supporting our invaluable oil and gas industry, making the most of our home-grown energy sources and backing British innovation in renewables.

    And across Government we will champion Britain’s businesses to deliver on the Prime Minister’s priority of growing the economy – helping them to create new jobs and even whole new industries across the UK.

    This week’s announcements will build on the country’s world-leading track record which includes:

    • Supporting North Sea oil and gas, which each year contributes £17billion to the UK economy
    • Investing billions of pounds in renewable energy – leading to the UK having the world’s four largest operational wind farms off its shores;
    • Cutting emissions by 48 per cent between 1990 and 2021, while growing the economy by 65 per cent over the same period;
    • Having 41.5 per cent of the UK’s electricity come from renewable sources in 2022 – up from 6.7 per cent in 2010; and
    • Leading the world in the response to Putin’s illegal invasion of Ukraine and driving Russia out of our energy market for good – enabling the UK to go over a year without Russian oil or gas.
  • PRESS RELEASE : Thousands to be trained to boost energy efficiency in homes across the country [July 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Thousands to be trained to boost energy efficiency in homes across the country [July 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 25 July 2023.

    Training providers across England can bid for a share of £8.85 million government funding to offer courses in retrofitting and installing insulation.

    • Up to 8,000 people will be trained to retrofit and install insulation with courses set to be free or heavily discounted
    • training providers across England can now bid for a share of £8.85 million government funding to offer the courses
    • scheme will help homes stay warmer for longer in the colder months, keeping households’ energy bills down and supporting families with the cost of living

    Thousands of people will be equipped with the right skills to make homes more energy efficient, thanks to new government funding which will see training courses rolled out across the country.

    From today (Tuesday 25 July) training providers, such as colleges and accreditation providers, will be able to bid for a share of £8.85 million to help up to 8,000 people – whether current installers or those new to the industry – develop the skills and expertise needed to retrofit homes with energy saving measures.

    The courses will be free or provided at low cost, and will cover a range of key energy efficiency measures, from putting in loft insulation to draft proofing measures. This will not only help drive household energy bills down and reduce emissions, but represents key employment opportunities for people to stay in and progress in work.

    Training providers will have until 25 August 2023 to apply for the funding to deliver the courses, with training places expected to open later this year.

    Lord Callanan, Minister for Energy Efficiency and Green Finance, said:

    We’re investing billions of pounds to improve energy efficiency across the country – saving households hundreds on their bills while making sure Britain’s homes are fit for the future.

    We’ve already helped millions of people to do this, but we need an army of skilled professionals able to install insulation and other energy-saving measures in homes across the country.

    Today’s funding will give training providers the opportunity to put on the courses needed to help create the skilled workforce ready to join this rapidly-growing market, with people able to benefit from these courses at low or no cost.

    Nearly half of homes in England now have an Energy Performance Certificate rating of C or above, saving them hundreds on their energy bills. However, today’s funding will help deliver on the government’s ambitions to go further and faster, creating a new wave of skilled tradespeople while boosting opportunity in local communities and growing the economy.

    Through the Home Decarbonisation Skills Training Competition, accredited energy efficiency training will either be free or heavily subsidised saving trainees hundreds of pounds as they develop their skills and gain qualifications.

    Successful organisations will provide training and support to installers to help build the capacity of the supply chain and upskill individuals which will support organisations to gain PAS 2030 certification, the industry specification which all energy efficiency installers must be certified to and compliant with to participate in government funded schemes. This will include installer training that leads to a recognised qualification NVQ or equivalent, and short courses.

    Training, which will be delivered until 31 March 2024, will be focused on 2 packages:

    • retrofit assessor and retrofit coordinator: provision and delivery of training to PAS 2035 standards
    • insulation: provision and delivery of training to National Occupation Standards or higher in the installation of domestic insulation measures

    Derek Horrocks, chairman of the National Insulation Association (NIA) and the National Home Decarbonisation Group (NHDG) said:

    I am delighted to see the government is committing further funding towards retrofit skills and training through the Home Decarbonisation Skills Training Competition.

    Achievement of energy efficiency targets is vital to ensure that millions of people across the country can enjoy a warmer, healthier home. A fundamental requirement for achieving this ambition is building a workforce of sufficient size and skill to deliver.

    Our members look forward to collaborating with all those working to develop green skills and make this competition a success.

    David Pierpoint, CEO of The Retrofit Academy, a leading training provider in retrofit courses, said:

    The Home Decarbonisation Skills Competition is an essential vehicle for increasing capacity while maintaining high standards and we welcome the government’s £8.85 million funding allocation.

    It is essential we use this funding to unlock more talent, upskill workforces and drive the infrastructure required to decarbonise the UK housing stock and we intend to continue our partnerships with the government and industry to build on the 5,000 learners we have already enrolled onto our range of retrofit training courses.

    The scheme builds on the £15 million provided since 2020 on skills training, which has delivered at least 16,000 opportunities in the energy efficiency, retrofit and low carbon heating sector.

    The competition will run alongside the £5 million Heat Training Grant, which officially opened last month and aims to train more than 10,000 low-carbon heating installers to work on heat pumps and heat networks by April 2025.

    These grants of £500 towards an individual’s training, which usually costs around £600 to complete – meaning the vast majority will be covered by the government.

    Energy efficiency remains the best approach to reducing fuel poverty in the long-term, contributing to warmer homes and reduced energy bills as well reducing carbon emissions.

    The government is helping to make homes across the country more energy efficient through the Home Upgrade Grant, and the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund and will extend support further through ECO4 and The Great British Insulation Scheme.

    These schemes are part of the £6.6 billion government is investing over this Parliament on clean heat and improving energy efficiency in buildings, reducing our reliance on fossil fuel heating. In addition, £6 billion of new government funding will be made available from 2025 to 2028.

    Find out more about the Home Decarbonisation Skills Training competition.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Innovation at heart of plans to strengthen retail energy market [July 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : Innovation at heart of plans to strengthen retail energy market [July 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 24 July 2023.

    Government sets out plans to boost competition and innovation in the energy market

    • Government sets out vision for a future energy market, with better consumer choice and protections at its core
    • industry invited to shape future of the market, focussing on innovation to unlock competition and usher in new low carbon technologies
    • collaboration with energy suppliers marks positive step forward in building a more resilient and investable market

    Households across Great Britain will have better access to energy deals and more control over their energy use as part of government plans to boost competition and innovation in the energy market.

    Energy Consumers and Affordability Minister Amanda Solloway today outlined plans to ensure consumers have a much wider range of using energy – whether that’s tariffs offering lower prices at certain times of the day, smart chargers that automatically put users on the lowest rate to charge electric vehicles or opportunities to buy shares in renewable energy in return for electricity bill discounts.

    Already some retailers are offering these more flexible and tailored ways of using energy, but today’s plans would ensure even more households benefit from these opportunities.

    Putin’s barbaric attack on Ukraine sent energy prices soaring, with the government stepping in to cover half a typical household’s energy bills this winter. However, despite prices falling by two thirds since their peak, the majority of suppliers are continuing to charge consumers the maximum amount allowed under the default tariff price cap instead of offering more innovative and flexible products.

    As the government continues to work with stakeholders and consumer groups on energy bill support for vulnerable households, it wants to make sure the market is resilient, competitive, fit for the future and delivers for consumers.

    That is why energy suppliers are today being asked to put forward ideas that will ensure consumers benefit from the cheaper cost of powering their homes as more of their electricity comes from renewables, and from using their energy when demand is lower.

    Amanda Solloway, Minister for Energy Consumers and Affordability said:

    The global rises in energy prices caused by Putin’s barbaric invasion of Ukraine shows why we need to bolster our energy security and strengthen our energy market, so families and businesses are protected, while getting a fair deal.

    Over the winter, we provided unprecedented levels of support – including paying nearly half a typical household’s energy bill – and took decisive steps to stabilise the retail market.

    We now want to put power back in the hands of consumers, giving them greater options to cut their energy bills in a market fit for the future. Today, I’m calling on industry to work with us, and take up the opportunities of investing in low-carbon technologies and providing a first-class customer service.

    With energy from renewables now accounting for 40% of electricity supply, today’s announcement signals a positive step forward in future-proofing the market, as the UK transitions to a greener, more secure energy system.

    The government wants energy retailers to play a driving role in unlocking barriers to innovation that will bring real benefits to both consumers and suppliers alike.

    To that end, government will now work with industry to gather their views and evidence on ways to make low carbon technologies more commonplace, bringing out this monumental sea-change in our energy retail market.

  • PRESS RELEASE : British nuclear revival to move towards energy independence [July 2023]

    PRESS RELEASE : British nuclear revival to move towards energy independence [July 2023]

    The press release issued by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on 18 July 2023.

    Great British Nuclear to boost UK energy security, reduce dependence on volatile fossil fuel imports and deliver government priority to grow the economy.

    • Great British Nuclear to drive rapid expansion of nuclear power at an unprecedented scale and pace
    • government kickstarts competition for game-changing small modular reactor (SMR) technology, which could result in billions of pounds of public and private sector investment in SMR projects
    • plans will boost energy security, create cheaper power and grow the economy – creating better-paid jobs and opportunity right across the country

    A massive revival of nuclear power gets underway today, placing the UK at the forefront of a global race to develop cutting-edge technologies to rapidly deliver cleaner, cheaper, more secure energy.

    Energy Security Secretary Grant Shapps will today announce how Great British Nuclear (GBN) will drive the rapid expansion of new nuclear power plants in the UK at an unprecedented scale and pace. This will boost UK energy security, reduce dependence on volatile fossil fuel imports, create more affordable power and grow the economy, with the nuclear industry estimated to generate around £6 billion for the UK economy.

    From today, companies can register their interest with GBN to participate in a competition to secure funding support to develop their products. This could result in billions of pounds of public and private sector investment in small modular reactor (SMR) projects in the UK – demonstrating the government delivering on its priorities to partner with the nuclear industry and jointly spearhead the future of nuclear technologies.

    Unlike conventional reactors that are built on site, SMRs are smaller, can be made in factories and could transform how power stations are built by making construction faster, and less expensive.

    GBN will play a key role in helping the government hit its ambition to provide up to a quarter of the UK’s electricity from homegrown nuclear energy by 2050 and achieve among the cheapest wholesale electricity prices in Europe, whilst supporting jobs across the country.

    In addition to supporting this emerging, more agile technology, the government remains committed to the mega projects of Hinkley Point C and Sizewell C and will work with GBN to consider the potential role of further large gigawatt-scale nuclear power plants in the UK energy mix.

    Energy Security Secretary Grant Shapps said:

    Britain has a rich history as a pioneer of nuclear power, having launched the era of civil nuclear power – and I’m proud to be turbocharging its revival and placing our country once again at the forefront of global innovation.

    By rapidly boosting our homegrown supply of nuclear and other clean, reliable, and abundant energy, we will drive down bills for British homes and make sure the UK is never held to energy ransom by tyrants like Putin.

    Today, as we open Great British Nuclear and the competition to develop cutting-edge small modular reactor technology, which could result in billions of pounds of public and private sector investment, we are seeing the first brush strokes of our nuclear power renaissance to power up Britain and grow our economy for decades to come.

    Minister for Nuclear Andrew Bowie said:

    As long-standing pioneers of nuclear, today we’re marking its UK revival with the opening of Great British Nuclear, which will play an essential role in transforming the way we power Britain from Britain.

    I look forward to seeing the world-class designs submitted from all around the world through the competitive selection process, as the UK takes its place front and centre in the global race to unleash a new generation of nuclear technology.

    Simon Bowen, interim chair of GBN said:

    GBN is core to delivering the government’s new nuclear programme.

    Building on the work done at Hinkley Point and Sizewell, today’s announcement of the start of the SMR selection process signifies a real step forward in delivering the scale of nuclear power that Britain needs for secure, sustainable energy future.

    We look forward to working with all interested parties – technology vendors, the supply chain, the wider industry and local communities as we move this essential programme forward.

    On top of today’s GBN competition launch, the government is also announcing today a grant funding package totalling up to £157 million:

    Up to £77.1 million of funding for companies to accelerate advanced nuclear business development in the UK and support advanced nuclear designs to enter UK regulation, maximising the chance of small and advanced modular reactors being built during the next Parliament.

    Up to £58 million funding for the further development and design of a type of advanced modular reactor (AMR) and next generation fuel. AMRs operate at a higher temperature than SMRs and as a result they could provide high temperature heat for hydrogen and other industrial uses alongside nuclear power. The winning projects of this latest phase of funding are:

    • up to £22.5 million to Ultra Safe Nuclear Corporation UK in Warrington to further develop the design of a high temperature micro modular reactor, a type of AMR suited to UK industrial demands including hydrogen and sustainable aviation fuel production
    • up to £15 million to National Nuclear laboratory in Warrington to accelerate the design of a high temperature reactor, following its success in Japan
    • up to £16 million to National Nuclear Laboratory in Preston to continue to develop sovereign coated particle fuel capability, a type of robust advanced fuel which is suitable for high temperature reactors

    A further £22.3 million from the Nuclear Fuel Fund will enable 8 projects to develop new fuel production and manufacturing capabilities in the UK, driving up energy security and supporting the global move away from Russian fuel. Winning projects include:

    • over £10.5 million to Westinghouse Springfields nuclear fuel plant in Preston to manufacture more innovative types of nuclear fuel for customers both in the UK and overseas, boosting jobs and skills in the North West
    • over £9.5 million to Urenco UK in Capenhurst Chester, an international supplier of nuclear materials, to enrich uranium to higher levels, including LEU+ and high assay low enriched uranium (HALEU). LEU+ will allow for current reactors and SMRs to run for longer between refuelling outages, improving reactor efficiency and economics both in the UK and abroad. HALEU development will ensure that the UK remains at the forefront of fuel development for future advanced reactors
    • over £1 million has also been awarded to Nuclear Transport Solutions, a subsidiary of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, to develop transport solutions to facilitate a supply chain for HALEU in the UK and internationally.
    • over £1.2 million to support MoltexFLEX, a UK molten salt reactor developer based in the North West, to build and operate rigs for the development of molten salt fuel. Molten Salt Reactors (MSRs) are an AMR type that use a molten salt as a coolant and fuel, leading to intrinsic safety compared with conventional fuels.

    A knowledge sharing initiative, led by expert nuclear industry advisers Arup Ove, aimed at facilitating the sharing of valuable expertise to reduce the time, risk, and cost of AMR R&D programme delivery.

    Julia Pyke, Joint Managing Director for Sizewell C said:

    It’s great to see the growing ambition for nuclear which underlines the key role it will play in a future ‘net zero’ energy system. Today’s announcement is also another big vote of confidence in Sizewell C, which will continue the transformation in British nuclear construction started by Hinkley Point C.

    If Hinkley had been on last year, UK consumers would have saved over £4 billion. Both projects will form a vital part of the future nuclear fleet, helping to lower carbon emissions and reduce energy costs for British households.

    Tom Greatrex, Chief Executive of the Nuclear Industry Association, said:

    The launch of GBN marks a new era for nuclear deployment in the UK – helping drive a programme of construction at pace and at scale to strengthen our energy security, create good jobs across the country, and advance our net zero future by providing up to 25% of our future power needs.

    Focus on the SMR selection will demonstrate the commitment to deployment of innovative technologies and open up new opportunities for the UK industrial supply chain here and abroad. There a range of sites and communities across the country ready to host SMR technology, alongside the large scale nuclear capacity we will also need.

    Britain has an important leadership role in the global nuclear industry, and nowhere more so than in our determination to drive Russia out of the nuclear fuel markets. The government’s Nuclear Fuel Fund will bolster those world-class capabilities that make us uniquely placed to help our allies replace Russian supplies with Western nuclear fuel.

    David Peattie, Nuclear Decommissioning Authority CEO, said:

    Decommissioning plays a critical role in the lifecycle of nuclear power generation, and we are committed to sharing our expertise, resource, and assets to support GBN and the government in delivering for the British public.

    I’m delighted that in support of this aim our nuclear transport arm, Nuclear Transport Solutions, has been awarded over £1 million of government funding to develop the fuel transport package for new nuclear reactors.

    We will continue to explore opportunities to align our mission with GBN’s ambitions, including the potential to free up our excess land for other uses.

    Last year, the government made the historic decision to revitalise the UK nuclear industry by confirming the first state backing of a major nuclear project in over 30 years, investing £700 million in Sizewell C. Subject to final approval, the project will support 10,000 jobs at peak construction, and provide reliable, low-carbon power to the equivalent of 6 million homes for over 60 years.

    GBN, an arms-length body, will initially be led by Simon Bowen and Gwen Parry-Jones, interim Chair and CEO.

    Following the launch of the SMR selection process today, once the initial stage is complete, GBN will down-select those technologies which have met the criteria, and then enter into detailed discussions with those companies as part of an Invitation to Negotiate phase. The initial down-select will take place in the Autumn.