New Blood, A Plastic Tax and, Wind & Solar

1. Chris Stark to Lead UK’s Clean Power Mission Control

Exciting news from the new government Chris Stark, CEO of the Climate Change Committee (CCC), has been appointed to spearhead the UK’s “Mission Control” for clean power. This initiative is a cornerstone of the UK government’s ambitious plan to deliver 100% clean electricity by 2030.

Stark’s extensive experience and proven track record in climate policy make him an ideal leader for this crucial mission. Under his guidance, the UK aims to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy sources, enhance grid infrastructure, and foster innovation in clean energy technologies.

This appointment is a significant step towards achieving the UK’s net-zero targets and underscores the new government’s commitment to a sustainable future. Stark’s leadership is expected to drive forward projects that will not only reduce carbon emissions but also create green jobs and bolster energy security.

To learn more about Chris Stark’s appointment and the UK’s clean power goals, check out the official announcement here.

2. UK’s New Plastic Packaging Tax Takes Effect

From April 2024, the UK’s Plastic Packaging Tax has officially come into effect. This new tax is levied on plastic packaging that contains less than 30% recycled material. The goal is to incentivise businesses to use more recycled plastics and reduce overall plastic waste.

Companies across various industries are already responding by revamping their packaging strategies. Many are switching to materials that are easier to recycle or increasing the recycled content in their products. This tax is expected to have a significant impact on reducing the amount of plastic waste ending up in landfills and oceans.

For more details on how the Plastic Packaging Tax works and its anticipated impacts, read more here.

3. UK’s Largest Solar Farm Gets Green Light and Labour Scrap the Onshore Wind Ban

The UK has just approved the construction of its largest solar farm, set to be built in Kent. This massive project, spanning over 900 acres, will generate enough electricity to power approximately 91,000 homes. This solar farm is a significant step towards the UK’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

One of the first acts of the new Labour Government was to lift the ban on onshore wind farms, reversing a 2015 Conservative policy that had effectively halted new projects.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced the end of this ban on July 8, 2024, as part of broader planning reforms to boost economic growth and enhance energy security. This change allows onshore wind projects to be assessed under the same criteria as other energy developments, removing previous hurdles.

The Labour Government aims to double onshore wind capacity by 2030, integrating large projects into the Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project regime for faster approvals. An updated National Policy Statement will ensure streamlined planning and development

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband emphasised the importance of lifting the ban to reduce energy bills, create jobs, and address the climate crisis, noting that public support for onshore wind is high at 78%.

Industry leaders have praised the decision, highlighting the efficiency of modern wind turbines. The policy shift is expected to boost the economy by ￡45 billion and create around 27,000 jobs. Overall, lifting the ban is seen as crucial for meeting the UK's renewable energy targets and hopefuly signals the intent of the incoming labour government.

For more information about the Kent solar farm project, visit this link or the wind ban here.