Leading UK industry bodies have urged the Government to accelerate industrial decarbonisation policies, warning that delays threaten jobs, investment and national energy security.
In a joint letter to the Energy Secretary, Carbon Capture and Storage Association, Hydrogen UK and Electrify Industry said the country risks further decline in critical industries without urgent action.
The groups warned that high electricity costs, international competition and policy uncertainty are already placing major pressure on UK heavy industry.
They argued that industrial decarbonisation is essential to economic resilience and national security, particularly as global supply chain instability increases.
The organisations called on ministers to reduce industrial electricity costs, accelerate technologies including electrification, hydrogen and carbon capture – and streamline planning and regulation.
They also urged the Government to provide long-term funding certainty, support workforce skills development and introduce a stronger carbon border adjustment mechanism.
Olivia Powis, CEO of the Carbon Capture and Storage Association, said: “Carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) is critical to the future of UK industry.”
She added: “Without it, key sectors like cement and refining cannot decarbonise or stay competitive, risking industry leaving the UK.”
Clare Jackson boss of Hydrogen UK warned that delays to the Government’s hydrogen strategy are damaging investor confidence and holding back projects in regions including the North East, North West and Yorkshire and the Humber.
Meanwhile, Daniel Paterson from Electrify Industry said high electricity prices were preventing British manufacturers from investing in cleaner technologies.
The letter concludes by urging ministers to treat industrial decarbonisation as a national security priority and work more closely with industry to deliver future policy.
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