Amber Rudd MP, Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, today made a major speech on Energy Security.
Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce has been working with the British Chambers of Commerce for over a year to encourage government backing of a 50-year energy security strategy.
The speech referenced a focus on the use of gas for generation purposes, and the world class oil and gas expertise both here in Aberdeen and in the UK. The need for clarity regarding investment in the UKCS and the potential for Carbon Capture and Storage were also highlighted.
In response, research & policy director, James Bream said:
“Firstly, the recognition that we have not been getting our energy infrastructure planning right is well overdue, but we are pleased the government have finally decided admit this. We look forward to action.”
“The Secretary of State is right to recognise the world class expertise base in Aberdeen and aim to build on that, but to do that requires investment by governments to ensure our regional infrastructure is fit to retain our talented people and leading edge companies.”
“We welcome the launch of the consultation on a Strategy to Maximise the Economic Recovery of the North Sea and also the view that carbon capture and storage will have a major bearing on our future ability to meet carbon targets.”