UK government unveils energy strategy

07 Apr 2022

Up to eight more nuclear reactors could be delivered on existing sites as part of the UK's new energy strategy.

The plan, which aims to boost UK energy independence and tackle rising prices, also includes plans to increase wind, hydrogen and solar production.

Under the government's new plans, up to 95% of the UK's electricity could come from low-carbon sources by 2030.

It outlines, for example, the goal of producing up to 50 gigawatts (GW) of energy through offshore wind farms, which the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy says would be more than enough to power every home in the UK.

Commenting on the strategy, Rain Newton-Smith, Chief Economist at the Confederation of British Industry, said: 'This strategy sets an ambitious bar for a more resilient, low carbon energy system for the future. Bold words must now be matched by bold actions from the government.

'The proof will be in the strategy's delivery, in partnership between business and government. Business believes greater energy independence must go hand in hand with delivering a net-zero, higher growth economy.

'While it's welcome, this strategy addresses some long-standing challenges, companies are continuing to really struggle with increased wholesale energy costs right now. The government's next step should be to provide immediate cashflow support for firms through the Recovery Loan Scheme – and move to cut bills for energy intensive industries to maintain competitiveness.'