Jessica Hooper, Director of RenewableUK Cymru, has welcomed today’s report from the Climate Change Committee entitled ‘Delivering a reliable and resilient decarbonised power system’. She said:
“Working in the renewables industry, we know that getting to a zero-carbon energy system by 2035 is feasible and affordable but to achieve this we need to start deploying renewable energy at pace – far faster than we are currently achieving. As outlined in the report, this is not an issue for the future, we need to build resilience in our systems now.
“In Wales, the key places that we need to see investment to unlock the potential of renewables are in grid and ports. We are still awaiting the announcement of the first Welsh freeport’s location, and we hope that will give some certainty and confidence to the industry. For example, the Celtic Freeport project could help to accelerate innovation and encourage investment, supporting floating wind development in the Celtic Sea, whilst also helping to fast-track skills needed for a net zero Wales.
“Both the Welsh Affairs Select Committee inquiry into renewable energy which reported just this week and last year’s Welsh Government Deep Dive into the barriers to renewable energy have identified grid constraints as a major issue so we are pleased, although not surprised, to see today’s report recommend a strategic plan for grid – this will require investment and a commitment to delivery from UK Government – something we have been calling for. Floating wind is a massive opportunity for Wales, but industry cannot deliver it alone – collaboration between the UK Government, Welsh Government and industry will be key to its success.
“The CCC report highlighted the increasing role that emerging technologies such as hydrogen will play in a net zero future. The South Wales Industrial Cluster has been looking at what industry can do to decarbonise and next week will launch its ‘Plan for Green Growth’, which will include hydrogen and carbon capture.
“The ambition and optimism around a net zero future is commendable but we need action and commitment to make it happen. We look forward to working with our members, Welsh Government and UK government to deliver this.”
The Climate Change Committee (CCC) is an independent, statutory body. Its purpose is to advise the UK and devolved governments on emissions targets and to report to Parliament on progress made in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and preparing for and adapting to the impacts of climate change. The full report and more information are available at www.theccc.org.uk