Promise To Action: Delivering on Net Zero

Net Zero is at a critical juncture, demanding our unwavering momentum.

Last week, I attended #innovationzero , the International Clean Tech Conference – where sector leaders convened to propel the green economy forward. Sizewell C's potential to deliver clean, secure energy for the UK made our participation crucial.

I joined a panel which explored regulatory frameworks, financing models, and the imperative shift towards community-driven decarbonisation expertly chaired by Stuart R Broadley FEI CEO of the Energy Industries Council. We recognised the shift from top-down targets to prioritising community involvement in decarbonisation, emphasising the importance of affordable energy for all. We acknowledged a step change in thinking on Net Zero. We can no longer silo decarbonisation from consumers’ right to affordable energy – a reality highlighted by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Innovation will fill part of this gap. Bart de Leeuw , Head of Energy Storage and Flexibility at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, discussed how innovation in the electricity grid can unlock diverse energy sources. Meanwhile, Sarah Merrick , CEO and Founder of Ripple Energy, explained how new investment models can empower consumers to finance the green transition. At Sizewell C, our vision for a low-carbon hub encompasses using process heat for hydrogen generation and direct air capture technologies, which would further decarbonisation while providing clean electricity to millions.

To unlock this innovation, we need a skilled workforce. Ana Musat , Executive Director of Renewable UK, underscored the UK's prevailing skills shortage. Catalytic projects like Sizewell C offer training opportunities to bridge this gap, and we are already collaborating with local colleges to nurture talent for onsite work.

Government support is equally vital. Husain Al Meer CMgr, CEng MIEM,MIAM , Director of Global Offshore Wind & UK at Masdar, stressed the need for clear, long-term alignment across governmental spheres to unlock capital deployment. Encouragingly, the government's £700 million investment commitment to Sizewell C in September signifies positive momentum. However, achieving Net Zero by 2050 demands increased capital and commitment from public and private sectors alike.

From my perspective, I believe that to secure net zero, we must bring local communities on board. While streamlining the planning process has its merits, it must retain essential checks and balances, ensuring community involvement in decarbonisation. Sizewell C's commitment to the local region involves investment of up to £4.4 billion in the East of England and £2 billion of this in Suffolk with further £23 million Community Fund, and a 19% net increase in local biodiversity.

I enjoyed this panel a lot. We were united in the goal of realising net zero, with a broad set of solutions offered on responding to these challenges. To guarantee our success, we must prioritise construction-ready projects like Sizewell C, capable of delivering on decarbonisation, generating green jobs, and fostering community investment.