Industry urges UK government to embrace renewables

Six renewable energy trade associations from the UK have in a joint letter called the UK government to embrace a wide range of renewable energy technologies in its upcoming Industrial Strategy.

The signatories of the joint letter sent to the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, Greg Clark, include RenewableUK, Scottish Renewables, Renewable Energy Association, Solar Trade Association, Regen, and the Electricity Storage Network.

The letter states that ‘low carbon sources are now the low-cost energy option – with cost reductions more akin to those seen in electronics than traditional infrastructure.’

Emma Pinchbeck, RenewableUK’s Executive Director, said: “It’s important that industries in the renewable energy sector work together in initiatives like this to make a joint case to Government demonstrating that low-carbon power is the way ahead.”

Speaking of the joint letter, Scottish Renewables Director of Policy, Jenny Hogan, said: “Capitalizing on our enviable natural resources and energy expertise the sector in Scotland is already producing remarkable industrial benefits, providing affordable energy and clean growth to the UK economy.

“With the right backing from government, renewable energy can continue to be the driver of our growing low-carbon economy for generations to come.”

Also, RenewableUK has submitted its response to the government’s consultation on the strategy, which according to the organization, shows that renewable energy offers a growing export market in manufacturing and services, and that the UK is in a strong position to secure high-value contracts.

Pinchbeck added: “RenewableUK’s full response to the Industrial Strategy, which we’ve just submitted to government, amplifies this with data and case studies. It shows that onshore and offshore wind, wave and tidal energy are key technologies, already delivering for Britain, and ready to power our country for decades with the right framework of support.

“Wind and marine energy tick all the boxes set out in the Industrial Strategy. These are innovative industries, growing exponentially, bringing economic benefits to all energy consumers, as well as creating thousands of jobs and attracting billions in investment.”