Source · Select Committees · Environmental Audit Committee
Recommendation 5
5
Acknowledged
Tackling the immediate energy security and affordability issues caused by the war in Ukraine does...
Conclusion
Tackling the immediate energy security and affordability issues caused by the war in Ukraine does not entail abandoning climate ambitions or putting them on pause. The energy trilemma can be solved by tackling all three issues together. There are many opportunities to achieve synergies between affordability, security and sustainability. Accelerating the transition away from fossil fuels will enhance the UK’s energy security and reduce the ability of aggressive or repressive regimes to use oil and gas supplies as an economic weapon. It will also help to protect households from volatile fossil fuel prices permanently and will reduce the fiscal burden of financial support to households through this and any future energy crisis. (Paragraph 40) Accelerating the transition from fossil fuels and securing energy supplies 81 The British Energy Security Strategy
Government Response Summary
The government agrees that energy security and climate ambitions are compatible and that transitioning away from fossil fuels is the best way to enhance energy security. They highlight existing progress in decarbonising the economy and improving energy efficiency.
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The Government agrees that tackling the immediate energy security and affordability issues caused by the war in Ukraine does not entail abandoning climate ambitions or putting them on pause. We are committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2050, and we believe that this goal is compatible with ensuring energy security and affordability. Indeed, accelerating the transition away from fossil fuels is the best way to enhance the UK’s energy security and reduce our vulnerability to volatile global energy markets. The UK has made significant progress in decarbonising its economy over the past decade, and we are now a world leader in renewable energy. We have also taken steps to improve energy efficiency and reduce energy demand. These measures are helping to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and improve our energy security. The Government is committed to continuing to take action to decarbonise our economy and enhance our energy security. We will continue to invest in renewable energy, improve energy efficiency, and reduce energy demand. We will also work with our international partners to promote global energy security and climate action.