Prime Minister Keir Starmer has pledged at the COP29 summit in Azerbaijan to reduce the UK’s emissions by 81% compared with 1990 levels by 2035, in line with the recommendation of the Climate Change Committee.
The announcement has been welcomed by renewable and clean energy trade groups and NGOs.
RenewableUK’s chief executive Dan McGrail said: “By setting this ambitious target, the Prime Minister is positioning the UK at the forefront of the global race for clean power which is ultimately better for billpayers and strengthens our energy security.
“We hope that other countries won’t just be influenced by the scale of the UK’s ambition, but by the fact that the Prime Minister’s target has been warmly received by the UK energy sector, which sees it as credible and deliverable.
“The doors of UK energy companies are wide open to countries which want to learn from our experience to inform their own Nationally Determined Contributions on emission reduction targets in the months to come.
“The huge pipeline of new energy infrastructure which we can deliver at speed between now and 2035 is the key factor in enabling the UK to reach this bold new target.
“Investors stand ready to make this happen as we’re now seen as one of the most attractive countries for private investment in new projects.”
Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology chief executive Trevor Hutchings said: “Today’s announcement on the UK’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) of an 81% emissions reduction by 2035 is a welcome and necessary step forward.
“There is no national security without climate security and we stand at a critical juncture where global leadership on the clean energy transition is essential.
“This commitment lays down a clear challenge to nations yet to set their own ambitious NDCs.
“The global race is on for green investment, economic growth and jobs.
“Setting this ambitious NDC is a clear signal that the UK means business.
“As we engage here at COP, we look forward to working with partners worldwide to build
Friends of the Earth’s head of campaigns Rosie Downes added: “Keir Starmer’s 2035 carbon-reduction pledge is a step in the right direction but must be seen as a floor to the level of ambition not a ceiling.
“Deeper, faster cuts are needed to help avert the climate collision course we are on.
“Furthermore, if these targets are to be credible, they must be backed by a clear plan to ensure they are met.
“The UK’s existing 2030 commitment is currently way off course.
“Climate action isn’t just good for the planet, it benefits people and the economy too. The UK government must show it means business by drawing up a new and ambitious climate action plan to deliver a cleaner, safer fairer future for us all with warmer homes, cheaper energy, cleaner air, better public transport and well-paid green jobs.”