Former Energy Minister Chris Skidmore MP is leading an independent review into the delivery of net zero climate commitments. This will focus on ensuring the UK’s fight against climate change maximises economic growth, while increasing energy security and affordability for consumers and businesses.

The review comes one year after the government published its Net Zero Strategy, setting out an overarching approach to carbon neutrality. Since then, there have been major changes to the economic and political landscape: Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine, historically high global energy prices and high inflation. These changes have placed huge pressures on British households and businesses and make it vital that the UK reaches Net Zero in a way that avoids exporting industry and emissions overseas.

This new, rapid review aims to identify new ways to deliver the legally binding target by 2050 in a way that is pro-business and pro-growth.

The review will examine:
• what the most pro-business, pro-growth and economically efficient path to reaching net zero is
• how to maximise the economic opportunities that the target presents as well as increase innovation, investment, exports and jobs
• what the economic costs and benefits are associated with new and emerging policies and technologies

As part of this review, Mr Skidmore announced a month-long call for evidence aimed at the public, businesses and local authorities, giving them a chance to share their views on a range of topics. This includes everything from how cutting people’s carbon footprint will affect their everyday lives, to how reaching net zero will be paid for and what more can be done to capitalise on it to grow the UK’s economy.

Alongside the call for evidence, Mr Skidmore is touring the UK to speak to as many consumers, investors and industrial leaders as possible. He will also consult with experts in areas including energy, land use and transport to help inform his review.

Chair of the Net Zero Review, Chris Skidmore MP, said:

“Everyone in the country has a stake in the UK’s transition to net zero. It doesn’t matter if you live in Argyle or Aberystwyth, Carlyle or Canterbury, our lives will need to change, whether that means the way we travel to work, heat our homes or run our factories.

“The decisions and actions we take today will impact consumers, employees and businesses alike, in cities, town and rural communities all over the country. That’s why I want to hear the views of as many people as possible over the next month.

“I want to ensure that net zero isn’t just viewed as the right thing to do for our environment, but becomes an essential driver of economic growth – and a win-win for Britain and the world.

Mr Skidmore will report to the government with a set of recommendations by the end of this year to help turbocharge the UK’s transition to net zero by identifying key economic opportunities.