Perth based energy giant SSE has called on the UK Government to greenlight billions of pounds of private investment in low carbon infrastructure to help the economy rebound from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
The firm, which is behind the Seagreen energy farm under construction off the Angus coastline, has issued a five point action plan which urges the government to commit to net zero power sector by 2040, based on a robust carbon price trajectory.
The ‘greenprint’ includes bringing forward the ban on petrol and diesel vehicles to 2030, introducing a deadline for the end of gas boiler usage, making homes more energy efficient and investment in electricity motorways to transport clean energy to homes an businesses.
Deploying the world’s most “extensive and efficient” electric vehicle charging infrastructure by 2025, delivering 40GW of offshore wind by 2030 and targeting at least 75GW by 2050 are also part of the proposal.
Alistair Philips-Davies, SSE chief executive, said the current moment is “pivotal on so many levels.
He said: “Coronavirus has demonstrated only concerted, focused effort can solve a crisis and that goes for the climate emergency too.”
Mr Philps-Davies said that public finances more stretched than ever in the wake of the pandemic, attracting private sector investment and channelling it into the right areas “will be vital.”
SSE also wants to build on the success of Contracts for Difference to attract more low-cost investment in new and repowered renewables, life extensions and storage.
The plan also calls for Britain’s interface with Europe to be optimised to support the green recovery.
Interest-free home renovation loans for consumers and SME’s, combined with incentives and regulation should also be introduced.
SSE has sent the plan to the prime minister and government departments.
jimillar@thecourier.co.uk
