Oral Answers to Questions

Andrew Bridgen Excerpts

Tuesday 21st May 2024 Commons Chamber

[Justin Tomlinson]

Politicians with zero business experience are high risk. It was not so long ago that the shadow energy security Minister highlighted the success of Robin Hood Energy, backed by Nottingham City Council, which delivered a £38 million loss.

[Andrew Bridgen (North West Leicestershire) (Ind)]

4. Whether she has made a cost-benefit analysis of her net zero policies.

[The Minister for Energy Security and Net Zero (Justin Tomlinson)]

Our pragmatic, proportionate and realistic approach to meeting net zero will capitalise on the opportunities of the low-carbon transition, creating jobs and investment across the UK.

[Andrew Bridgen]

The cost of net zero is being borne by our hard-pressed constituents, at the same time as China increases its carbon dioxide emissions by more than the UK’s total emissions every year. Wholesale electricity prices are currently £65 per megawatt, but we are paying £102 per megawatt for fixed offshore wind, offering £246 for floating offshore wind, £89 for onshore wind, and £85 for solar. Can the Minister explain whatever happened to plentiful, cheap renewable energy?

[Justin Tomlinson]

The hon. Member and I agree that we must champion the importance of delivering cheaper bills for consumers. This does not have to be a binary choice between tackling climate change and delivering cheaper consumer bills. By investing in a cleaner, more efficient energy system, we can do both.