Russell Dean, Deputy Divisional Manager at Mitsubishi Electric, has responded to the recent news that Conservative Party Leader Kemi Badenoch has said that net zero is ‘impossible’.
“Claiming that net zero is ‘impossible’ by 2050 is disappointing. Statements like this can cast doubt on policy at a time when businesses and consumers need certainty and clear direction in order to invest and make changes to help reach decarbonisation targets.
“Demand for renewable technologies like heat pumps is in fact rising to record levels, and the Seventh Carbon Budget recognises that accelerating heat pump adoption will play a crucial role in achieving net zero by 2050. This means now is the time for the government to show clear commitment to the existing net zero goals, and give industry and consumers the confidence they need to make the switch.
“Reaching net zero is possible; and decarbonisation and economic growth go hand-in-hand. The CBI reported that ‘the net zero economy has become a powerhouse of job creation and economic expansion’.
The demand for renewable heating and heat pumps can grow further. By reducing levies on low carbon electricity in comparison to high carbon gas so that prices are more competitive, and by providing greater clarity on the Future Homes and Building Standards, government will encourage households to switch to heat pumps and businesses to accelerate investment in the renewable heating sector.”
