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The UK government is urged to confront the challenges posed by local opposition groups, often referred to as “net-zero nimbys,” in its efforts to achieve a decarbonized nation. A recent analysis from the Resolution Foundation indicates that to successfully transition Britain’s homes, transportation, and electricity systems towards net-zero emissions, a significant increase in public and private investment will be necessary.
With Labour leader Keir Starmer advocating for a swift decarbonization of the power sector by the year 2030, the report emphasizes that the associated projects, which include solar farms, battery storage solutions, and onshore wind installations, are likely to encounter resistance from local communities. Furthermore, a substantial portion of proposed solar initiatives is projected for wealthier areas, where two-thirds of the planned solar projects are located in the top 40% of affluent neighborhoods.
Jonny Marshall, a senior economist at the Resolution Foundation, highlighted the need for the government to effectively manage the opposition from local residents: “To achieve this transition, it is critical to navigate the pushback from net-zero nimbys, who frequently reside in more affluent regions. The government must be ready to engage in these challenges, even if it may not align with popular sentiment among certain voter groups, as these decisions are essential for the national interest.”
The thinktank proposed potential strategies for mitigating local opposition, suggesting that the government might consider centralizing authority over developments or offering financial incentives to encourage support for renewable energy projects. Conversely, permitting local resistance could significantly hinder progress in decarbonization efforts.
Steps have already been initiated by Starmer’s administration, including lifting a restriction on new onshore wind developments in England, amending planning regulations, and removing legal defenses for a proposed new coal mine. Recently, Ed Miliband, the energy secretary, faced backlash from Conservative representatives after approving a £600 million energy project in their constituencies, located at the Cambridgeshire and Suffolk border.
Torsten Bell, the former chief executive of the Resolution Foundation and new Labour MP, criticized politicians objecting to new energy projects. He specifically referenced Adrian Ramsay, the co-leader of the Green Party, who has called for a halt to new electricity pylons in East Anglia, arguing that such infrastructure is crucial for transmitting electricity generated by offshore wind farms.
In a recent post on X, Bell stated, “You can be pro-net zero or pro-zero building but not both.” In response, Ramsay, representing Waveney Valley, urged the government to explore alternative solutions he believes would be more appropriate for the energy landscape.
This year, Labour has significantly revised its earlier commitment to invest £28 billion annually in green infrastructure, wary of the potential political ramifications ahead of the upcoming general elections.
Just last week, the Committee on Climate Change, a watchdog, emphasized the need for the new government to enhance renewable energy generation or risk violating international commitments under the Paris Agreement.
A spokesperson from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero stated that the government is prioritizing action on green energy initiatives. “Within just one week, we have removed barriers to onshore wind projects, approved more solar power installations than in the entirety of the previous year, and proposed extensive plans for a solar rooftop initiative. It is also essential to address community concerns, ensuring that neighborhoods hosting renewable energy infrastructure see direct benefits,” they said.
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www.theguardian.com