Climate action must ‘significantly ramp up’ – CCC report

According to the CCC’s latest report, just one-third of emissions cuts needed to hit the 2030 target are currently covered by credible government plans. While there has been strong progress made in decarbonising the grid, the committee said action across transport, buildings, industry and agriculture now needs to be ramped up significantly. 

“The country’s 2030 emissions reduction target is at risk,” said Professor Piers Forster, interim chair of the Climate Change Committee. “The new government has an opportunity to course-correct, but it will need to be done as a matter of urgency to make up for lost time. They are off to a good start. Action needs to extend beyond electricity, with rapid progress needed on electric cars, heat pumps and tree planting.

“The transition to Net Zero can deliver investment, lower bills, and energy security. It will help the UK keep its place on the world stage. It is a way for this government to serve both the people of today and the people of tomorrow.”

The CCC assessment was highly critical of the previous government’s policy rollbacks, while urging the new government to reverse detrimental decisions on EVs, energy efficiency in rented homes, and decarbonising domestic heating. A 10-point plan released by the committee also highlighted the need for cheaper electricity, clarity around upcoming renewable energy auctions, a strategy to support skills transition, and the ramping up of tree planting and peat restoration.  

Yselkla Farmer, CEO of BEAMA, the UK trade association for energy infrastructure and systems, said the report showed the need for clear targets and policy decisions around heat pumps, EVs and other energy infrastructure. 

“The government has a clear mandate to accelerate electrification and pursue green economic growth,” she said. “The committee’s report calls for a significant increase in heat pumps, removing policy barriers for consumers wanting to make a Net Zero choice and a greater focus on the supply chain. 

“BEAMA members are ready to invest and grow the market for the clean technologies of the future that will decarbonise our homes, businesses and transport. Scaling up this supply chain for heat pumps and EV charging infrastructure will take time, so the sooner the UK government re-commits to clear targets, the more affordable and achievable they will be.”