- Kemi Badenoch’s dismissal of net zero has been criticised, with many arguing that while energy costs must be addressed, the 2050 target should not be abandoned.
- Experts argue that net zero is essential for reducing energy bills, driving innovation, and securing the UK’s leadership in the global green economy.
Kemi Badenoch’s belief that net zero is unachievable has drawn criticism from sector voices, with most saying she is wrong. While many agree that pricing needs to be addressed, they argue the Conservatives should not reject the 2050 target. Here are some responses:
Sam Richards, CEO of Britain Remade, said, “Kemi is right that we need to lower Britain’s high energy prices, but bills are high because we have too little homegrown clean energy, not too much. It’s hard to build new nuclear plants, and gas still sets electricity prices, even when wind and solar are cheaper.
“This is a big challenge for our economy. To get abundant energy, we need to make it easier, quicker, and cheaper to build new nuclear plants. We can reduce bills, increase security, and cut emissions.”
Dhara Vyas, CEO of Energy UK, said, “The UK should remain a leader in the energy transition, creating economic growth and attracting investment in future technologies and jobs. We need honest talks about how to fund the costs fairly for households and businesses, considering the price of inaction.
“The recent Climate Change Committee report estimated the net cost of reaching the target at around 0.2% of UK GDP per year on average—a manageable cost that has decreased.”
Will Walker, UK Policy Lead at Ashden, said, “Kemi Badenoch’s decision to abandon the 2050 net zero target is a reckless step backwards. It goes against public sentiment, economic sense, and Conservative values. Polls show broad public support for net zero. Dropping it won’t protect living standards—it will harm them.”
Rachel Solomon Williams, Executive Director at the Aldersgate Group, said, “The UK has a proud history of cross-party consensus on climate goals and their role in driving economic growth. Net zero can be achieved in a way that benefits the public and boosts the economy. It requires certainty, decisive policies, and consistent ambition to attract private investment. Now is not the time to back away.”
Finally, Trevor Hutchings, CEO of the Renewable Energy Association, said, “Net zero is not only an environmental necessity; it’s an economic opportunity and national security priority. The Conservative-commissioned Net Zero Review made it clear: the transition offers one of the biggest growth opportunities of the 21st century.
“The recent energy price hikes were caused by fossil gas. Renewables offer the best route to affordable, secure energy. Political leaders must push the Government to move faster and ensure the UK leads the global green economy.”