Commenting on the launch of the Government’s new Energy Strategy, Stephen Marcos Jones chief executive of the Association for Consultancy and Engineering (ACE), said:

“Be it wind, solar, hydrogen or nuclear energy, our members are critical to the successful delivery of complex infrastructure projects. They stand ready to work in close partnership with Government in the creation and design of a more secure, and less carbon intensive, domestic energy system.

“We welcome the investment in up to eight new nuclear plants alongside increased investments in offshore wind, solar and hydrogen – crucial if we are to enhance energy security and meet Net Zero targets in an affordable way for consumers. However, to help us on our Net Zero journey, we would have liked to have seen more to encourage the delivery of the cheapest forms of renewable energy, onshore wind and solar, as well as more on driving greater energy efficiency.

“We must not forget that it will take time for any new Strategy to deliver results – for energy security, our Net Zero targets, or on affordability. Nevertheless, the Strategy outlines a positive and proactive intent.”