The government must continue to prioritise home grown energy in the UK supply chain and today’s Clean Power 2030 Action Plan is an important step forward as we continue to expand renewable electricity generation, says Offshore Energies UK.
The plan includes proposals to prioritise critical energy infrastructure in the planning system, and to expand and speed up the auction process for wind energy generation projects so more are connected faster.
Offshore Energies UK says the domestic offshore energy sector, with its expertise and capacity, is ready to deliver the clean energy the UK needs while supporting jobs and driving economic growth.
Homegrown gas will continue to play a critical role in delivering energy security and balancing an electricity grid which is increasingly based on renewables. Currently, the UK relies on oil and gas for 75 per cent of its energy. 85 per cent of households have a gas boiler.
As the UK builds a clean electricity grid, it OEUK has said it makes sense to back homegrown energy production and the economic value it brings today and in the years ahead.
The recent challenges in the CfD (contract for difference) wind generating auction have highlighted the need for competitive and responsive policies that reflect economic conditions and attract investment.
David Whitehouse, OEUK’s Chief Executive, commented:
“This industry is committed to net zero carbon emissions by 2050. As we work towards that ambition UK consumers must have energy that is affordable and reliable.
“UK offshore energy is a key part of the solution because homegrown affordable energy is critical to the success of our industrial strategy and broader plans for growth.
“Where you get energy from and how much it costs is the cornerstone of the entire economy. The UK is now importing more energy than at any time in the last 60 years. But we still have significant oil and gas reserves around in our offshore waters and we should use them responsibly alongside an acceleration of renewable energy.
“We must decarbonise UK electricity supply is a way that accelerates how we decarbonise the remaining 75% of our energy mix which is not powered by electricity. Oil and gas will be needed for decades to come.”
