MPs who are members of the EAC wrote to Grant Shapps MP, the secretary of state for energy security and net zero, about the lack of progress made on the deployment of solar power, citing concerns about access to the electricity grid and capital costs.
Environmental Audit Committee Chairman, Rt Hon Philip Dunne MP, said:
“There is potential for solar energy to have a bright future in the UK, but a dark cloud of delays for the industry hinders the ability to meet its full potential. Evidence to our Committee made clear that the UK has the potential to fulfil the UK’s ambition of 70GW of generating capacity from solar. But sticking points for households around access to finance and VAT being slapped on batteries remain."
In its letter, the MPs said they were concerned about “the availability of trained staff” to deliver solar capacity, and shared statements from witnesses to the committee who has said the industry is facing a labour shortage and a lack of skilled workers.
IEMA is currently engaged in a wide range of work to increase the supply of trained, skilled workers for the transition to a more sustainable economy.
The professional body, which represents more than 20,000 workers in the environment and sustainability sector, has recently announced plans to secure a commitment to green skills and training on the final cover text for the COP28 negotiations in the United Arab Emirates.
It also recently started a project called the Green Careers Hub, where participants in the sector and those interested in joining it can find information about how to gain the skills and training needed to contribute to the green economy.
Subscribe
Subscribe to IEMA's newsletters to receive timely articles, expert opinions, event announcements, and much more, directly in your inbox.
Posted on 4th May 2023
Latest Posts
-
Labour's plan for economic growth must mean green growth – but there is a green skills gap looming
- 5th July 2024 -
As Labour plans to “slash red tape” for economic growth, YouGov poll finds 3 in 5 people want to increase public involvement in planning system
- 28th June 2024 -
Medtronic agrees partnership with IEMA to accelerate skills and standards in sustainability
- 21st June 2024 -
Landmark climate impact ruling for fossil fuel projects, cites IEMA guidance
- 20th June 2024 -
IEMA sets out 18 policy asks for the next Government
- 3rd June 2024 -
New global alliance formed for 25,000 environment and sustainability professionals
- 29th May 2024