UK’s net zero ambitions at risk after ‘disastrous’ offshore wind auction

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🗞️ Driving the news: The UK government’s management of offshore wind projects is under scrutiny after insiders revealed a significant gap in future renewable energy provision
• The latest government auction saw no new offshore wind farms approved due to the absence of viable bids

🔭 The context: Last month, The Observer reported on the challenges facing energy developers, as the prices offered hadn't accounted for the recent surge in inflation
• As a result, even schemes sanctioned in the previous year’s auction, like the large-scale Norfolk Boreas wind farm, are in jeopardy

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Offshore wind is integral to the UK’s commitment to reduce carbon emissions
• The nation's goal is to achieve net zero by 2050 and expand offshore wind capacity from 14GW to 50GW by 2030
• The present challenges put a 24GW discrepancy in place, posing a threat to these ambitious targets

⏭️ What's next: Industry leaders are urging ministers to promptly raise the maximum price for next year's auction and are also seeking assistance to ensure that previously agreed schemes can move forward

💬 One quote: “The race to net zero is also a race for industrial revival… The UK needs to speed up to stay in the race. We must act now to safeguard our industrial heartlands and manufacturing sector.” (Paul Nowak, Trades Union Congress General Secretary)

📈 One stat: The lack of support for renewables in the UK could jeopardize about 800,000 manufacturing and supply chain jobs across sectors, including automotive, steel, rubber, and plastics

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