Considering the UK government’s vision to reach net zero by 2050, decarbonisation and energy security have been recognised as key areas for development. However, strategies such as the 2030 ICE Ban and the updated announcements made on Energy Security Day earlier this year, have been criticised significantly. Almost half of British motorists claim that the ICE Ban should be slashed, as the number of EV chargepoints are not keeping up with the increase in EV uptake. In addition to this, earlier this year, the government announced the approval of the Talbot oil and gas field, which is estimated to contain the equivalent of 18 million barrels of oil.
Given that the recent IPCC report further highlights the urgency and severity of the climate crisis, we simply do not have any more time to waste. Therefore, action from a collaborative network of stakeholders to navigate the transition to net-zero will be invaluable.
Last week, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer revealed that he is determined to not only prioritise net zero, but also scrap the ban on new onshore wind farms introduced in 2012. Labour’s energy plan published today, promises the creation of a net zero electricity grid by 2030, and a focus on research and development, a key strength of the UK. Given that the energy sector has often been under attack by the Tory party in recent months, this plan shows great promise.
All this, and much more, will certainly encourage much debate and discussion amongst those who are looking to accelerate their journey to net zero. What’s clear is that realising these sustainability ambitions cannot be achieved in isolation.
In addition to support from regulators, efforts from businesses, thought leaders, and communities are equally essential. Finding effective platforms and forums for all stakeholders to come together will be crucial if the energy sector is to successfully tackle project financing, procurement, and decarbonisation, and enable the innovation required for a continued transition to a zero-carbon energy future.
This will form a huge focus at Reset Connect London this week, the UK’s largest sustainability event, and flagship of London Climate Action Week. With a strong focus on the energy sector, the event aims to equip businesses, investors, and policymakers with the necessary support, connecting investors with viable proposals, and creating solid, and pragmatic solutions, so organisations can ensure they’re future proofed on the road to net zero.
The energy crisis is a multifaceted issue so a well-rounded approach is required to address it. Therefore, key thought leaders from the energy sector such as MP Chris Skidmore, Chair of the Net Zero Review, Adrian Keen, CEO of InstaVolt, and Rhian Kelly, Chief Sustainability Officer at the National Grid will be speaking at the event. Discussions will address resetting the narrative around climate action, reshaping the urban mobility landscape, and recognising the role of the UK in accelerating the green transition.
Reset Connect London is free to register and attend, ensuring the tools to address climate change and opportunity to be actively involved in networked change are accessible to all. Open access sustainability events such as Reset Connect are more important than ever to encourage discussion, collaboration, and action, and to open up the floor to different perspectives and solutions.
We will be exhibiting at stand L200 at Reset Connect so if you’d like to catch up please come and say hello!