Renewable Energy Must be at Forefront of UK Infrastructure Plans

Chief Executive of RenewableUK, Hugh McNeal, has responded to the recent creation of the new Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy. The new department will be headed by Greg Clark MP who is now Secretary of State.

Hugh McNeal said:

“We’re looking forward to working supportively with Mr Clark in his new role, as we represent industries that can attract inward investment in the UK, and onshore wind offers the cheapest source of new power for Britain. The renewable energy industry has faced some tough challenges over the past year, but now that we have clarity on the make-up of the new administration we can move forward.

“The UK will invest over £20bn in wind energy in the next five years. Energy is the big ticket item in British infrastructure spending. Industry is ready to invest and it is vital for our economy that this work continues.”

Mr McNeal also commented on the achievements of Amber Rudd in her role as Energy Secretary:

“Although the way the Renewables Obligation was closed has significantly impacted on renewables investment onshore, we must recognise the achievements of Amber Rudd as Energy Secretary: an unequivocal champion of offshore wind, a global pioneer in the phasing out of coal, a leading negotiator at the historically important Paris Climate Change Summit, and a swift adopter of the Fifth Carbon Budget which should secure our transition to low carbon energy into the 2030s”.