In the Review of Energy Policy 2024, we set out the key energy priorities for the new Labour Government.
In the report, we emphasise that clean power in 2030 is just a first step towards a more expansive vision for clean energy through the 2030s and beyond. The Review outlines actions to protect poorer households, manage the transition away from gas, bring benefits to British industry and protect the local environment.
In the review, we outline the following key considerations.
With a context of high fuel prices and low pace of energy efficiency retrofit, the government must ensure that the energy system works for the poorest. This requires adequate funding for the Warm Homes Plan, renewed energy efficiency delivery, and action to ensure that electricity market reforms deliver affordable energy for lower income households.
The challenges of clean power by 2030 must not distract from the even larger challenges of post-2030 when the whole electricity system needs to expand, as heat and transport become increasingly electrified, and we build new infrastructure such as hydrogen and CO2 pipelines.
The infrastructure delivering gas will be crucial to UK energy security even as the volume of gas used decreases. It is essential to address how this infrastructure will be funded in future, and that the transition away from gas is carefully and strategically planned.
Developing a comprehensive industrial strategy with a strong focus on decarbonisation will be essential to achieve the UK’s net zero goals.
The Environment Act provides a framework for protection of the natural environment alongside new infrastructures. Delivering for nature requires resources, skills and coordinated effort.
The report also explores the interplay of Welsh and UK Energy Policies as a case study of an integrated energy system and industrial decarbonisation.