Has the net zero agenda hit a major stumbling block?

Written by Harry Gilham, Senior Account Director.

For more than a decade the UK has become accustomed to political and public support for greater sustainability policy, decarbonising our energy system and increasing the circular economy. But in recent months, the net zero agenda has come under intense scrutiny, so has it hit a major stumbling block – or is this just a temporary blip? 

The UK Government has made substantial progress in advancing renewable energy projects during its first ten months – including approving major solar farms, reintroducing onshore wind in England, and establishing GB Energy to facilitate new initiatives. However, opposition has intensified, particularly from the Leader of the Opposition, Kemi Badenoch, who called the net zero 2050 target “unrealistic“. Reform UK has also gained traction, advocating for policies that restrict battery energy storage systems and overhead electricity pylons.

Former Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair has added to the debate, arguing that limiting energy consumption and fossil fuel production is “doomed to fail” and calling for a rethink of net zero policies. 

So, will we see a reset on this subject? It is unlikely the Government will change course on this as making Britain a ‘clean energy superpower’ is one of their five missions in this term. Moreover, most of their voters are supportive of decarbonising the UK energy grid and creating a more sustainable future. The public also remain supportive of renewable energy. Recent YouGov polls continue to indicate strong public support for new solar farms, on- & off-shore wind farms. 

Here at Instinctif Partners, we also always find strong support from the silent majority in the local community when conducting door-to-door surveys for renewable energy projects.

So, despite a growing chorus of voices turning the net zero agenda into a wedge issue and blaming it for everything from the recent bailout of British Steel to the cost of living and food insecurity, we believe this is just a temporary blip. 

There remains strong Government and public support for a more sustainable future.