British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s administration unveiled plans on Tuesday to construct new gas-fired power stations in a bid to enhance energy security, sparking criticism over its climate policies ahead of the upcoming general election.
Despite the government’s commitment to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050, the Conservative government announced its intention to build gas power plants as a measure to prevent potential energy blackouts. The move comes amidst concerns over the reliability of renewable energy sources during adverse weather conditions.
Sunak emphasized the need for sustainable progress towards net zero, ensuring that energy security remains intact even on days when renewable sources are unable to meet demand adequately.
Energy Minister Claire Coutinho echoed Sunak’s sentiments, warning of the genuine risk of blackouts without gas as a backup for renewables.
The independent Climate Change Committee (CCC) acknowledged the necessity for a small amount of gas-fired power in a decarbonized power system to maintain balance and guarantee energy supply security.
However, critics, including Labour energy spokesman Ed Miliband, voiced discontent with the government’s gas-centric approach, urging for greater investment in renewable energy sources such as onshore wind turbines.
Environmentalists also condemned the government’s gas announcement, arguing that it contradicts the nation’s overarching goal to combat climate change. Greenpeace UK policy director Doug Parr criticized the government’s reliance on fossil fuels, emphasizing the imperative of massive private investment in renewables and grid upgrades for a low-cost, secure, and clean energy system.