IN THE WAKE of rising global energy prices and the war in Ukraine, the UK Government has today published a new Energy Security Strategy. The strategy outlines the steps required to safeguard the nation’s long-term energy independence, security and prosperity.
Preseli Pembrokeshire MP Stephen Crabb has said that the strategy will unlock new economic opportunities for Pembrokeshire.
At the heart of the energy security strategy is major new investment in low carbon nuclear and renewable energy and includes new ambitious targets for achieving this. A drive to produce up to 50 gigawatts by 2030 from offshore wind has been set, of which 5 gigawatts will come from floating offshore wind.
Mr Crabb has been one of the leading voices in Parliament calling for a strategy to deliver a new floating offshore wind industry in the Celtic Sea. He recently urged ministers to raise the target for floating offshore wind deployment to send a signal to developers and investors about the long-term potential of this new industry.
The strategy will also see a significant acceleration of nuclear energy, with a target of up to 24 gigawatts by 2050. A new government body, Great British Nuclear will be set up to help bring forward these plans.
Commenting on the announcement, Mr Crabb said:
“I am delighted to see that renewable energy will play a significant role in the strategy, especially floating offshore wind. I want to see Pembrokeshire benefit from the growth of the renewable energy industry”.
“Milford Haven is one of the most important energy ports in Europe. The vision outlined today holds the potential for a new generation of investment in the port as we seek to develop large scale offshore wind power in the Celtic Sea. The Prime Minister is correct to say that Britain can become the Saudi Arabia of this renewable energy industry.”
“I recently met with the Crown Estate which owns the seabed and is responsible for licensing the various applications for new projects to urge a quicker roll-out of new licenses. There is no doubt that floating offshore wind is an industry where Pembrokeshire has a natural advantage, given our coastline, wind speeds, and the transferable expertise of our oil and gas sector. It has significant potential to make a major contribution to achieving the UK’s net zero ambitions whilst boosting our local economy and providing high skilled green jobs here in Pembrokeshire”.
