Government energy announcements send mixed signals on commitments to Net Zero

Responding to the week’s energy announcements, Prospect Senior Deputy General Secretary Sue Ferns said: “It might be Energy Week for the government, but not everyone is singing from the same hymn sheet.

“While the Inflation Reduction Act is propelling the US ahead in the race for investment and good, green jobs, our government is short-circuiting investor confidence as it sends mixed signals on its commitment to its own Net Zero and electrification goals. Every announcement has been undermined by yet another ministerial briefing against the government’s energy policies for perceived short-term political gain.

“With persistent inflation and rising interest rates presenting growing challenges to financing new energy projects, we cannot afford for the government to add to the uncertainty businesses are facing.

“It’s fitting that the PM is off to Disneyland for his summer holiday – as his energy security plans risk being little more than a fantasy if he does not get serious.”