Greens respond to GB Energy announcement

Carla Denyer, co-leader of the Green Party said: “This is an important day for our country. After 14 wasted years it is a relief that we now have an Energy Secretary who understands the climate crisis and is prepared to take the action we need. 

“But action on renewables will be pointless unless it goes hand in hand with the rapid transition away from North Sea oil and gas. New figures today show more oil and gas being produced, threatening to unleash nearly 12bn tonnes of planet-heating emissions, with the world’s wealthiest countries – such as the US and the UK – leading the way, according to the International Institute for Sustainable Development 

“Energy Secretary Ed Miliband is claiming that his plans will reduce bills but that will only be achieved if the Government invests in improving the energy efficiency of homes too. The significant cut in proposed public investment from £28bn every year to £8.3bn over the course of the parliament means energy will continue to be wasted while bills soar and the poorest households live in cold homes. 

“Labour’s commitment to clean electricity by 2030 is welcome, but without urgent action on transport and home heating we won’t meet our climate targets. That is why the Green Party called for major investment in public transport and a nationwide programme of home insulation and conversion of home heating away from gas and towards electricity.”