East Suffolk Council
Support for further discussions on offshore options
East Suffolk Council recognises the need to deliver renewable infrastructure to help achieve the UK’s net zero targets, but this cannot be at any cost. National Grid Electricity System Operator’s Offshore Coordination Phase 1 Final Report (2020) previously identified the significant savings that an integrated approach to the electricity network could secure for consumers in the long term. Whilst there is a wider longer-term strive towards integrated approaches being recognised, East Anglia is facing the onslaught of multiple infrastructure projects now and so it is essential that further consideration is given to integrated solutions as a matter of urgency.
Councillor Tom Daly, East Suffolk Council’s cabinet member for Energy and Climate Change said: “It is essential that we do not allow renewable energy targets to be prioritised above all else, and especially above the need to achieve coordination and overall efficiencies in the energy infrastructure network to help reduce detrimental impacts on the environment and local communities.”
Representatives from East Suffolk have previously met with Andrew Bowie MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and other officials to express concerns regarding the impacts of multiple energy projects in East Suffolk. This has enabled the Government to have a greater understanding of the cumulative challenges facing the district and local communities.
We therefore support the current request by community groups to secure further discussions within Government on the potential of integrated offshore options for East Anglia prior to the summer recess.