Source · Select Committees · Science, Innovation and Technology Committee
Recommendation 22
22
Acknowledged
Although the technology is at a relatively early stage of development, Space Based Solar Power...
Conclusion
Although the technology is at a relatively early stage of development, Space Based Solar Power (SBSP) has the potential to become a useful supply of green energy by 2050, helping the UK to reach its Net Zero goals. We commend the announcement by BEIS of plans to create an innovation programme that will seek to develop the technologies required to achieve SBSP. (Paragraph 105) Supporting the UK space sector
Government Response Summary
The government recognizes the benefits of budgetary certainty for developing new technologies, but it is not commiting to provide longer-term settlements and suggests sharing lessons learned from other organizations.
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The Government recognises the benefits that are associated with providing greater budgetary certainty for projects developing new and novel technologies. Government budgets are set through the Spending Review process that needs to balance budgetary and spending certainty with risks of future uncertainty and events. It is also appropriate for the Government of the day to be able to ensure government spending reflects their priorities. There is potentially more that can be done to share lessons learned from other organisations, such as UKRI, on how to approach multi-year programmes within shorter term settlements. The positive outcomes of the recent ESA CMIN22 negotiations highlight how effective forward planning and cross-government working can support partner organisations in mitigating the impacts of long-term uncertainty.