Somerset will become world leader in low carbon energy
Somerset businesses and those looking to move to the county have heard from the a top civil servant at the Department for Energy and Climate Change that the low carbon renaissance provides a “fantastic business opportunity”.
Hergen Haye told around 200 delegates at the low carbon conference in Somerset at the end of May that cutting carbon emissions and saving energy provides the county with “a huge challenge and fantastic business opportunity”.
Haye, who is head of nuclear new build at DECC, spoke about the role of all low carbon energy sources in developing a cluster of businesses specialising in technology that Britain and the world must have to tackle the problems of climate change.
He said, “We need to train up the workforce, expand businesses, have more start-up new businesses and we should also aim to attract business from elsewhere in the country and overseas. In the long term, we should aim to become leaders in the business field, to enable us to invest and operate abroad. “
He was speaking to Somerset business leaders and companies looking to move to the county at the Somerset – the Energy to Achieve event, held at Taunton Rugby Club on Tuesday 24th May.
Haye told the audience that the introduction of the Government’s renewable heating incentive – the first in Europe – will reward those who generate heat from renewable sources for homes, businesses and communities, and help convert people from conventional heating.
He also spoke about the need for a growing, skilled workforce.
“Together we can change the perception that new build programmes rely on labour from overseas,” Haye said. “We have the opportunity to strengthen workforces and business opportunities, whether it is in construction, engineering or hospitality and transport. The framework is there and the instruments are available to support and to finance the project. The question is, will businesses rise to the challenge, take the opportunity and make it happen?”
Along with the Hinkley redevelopment, EDF Energy is investing in the Energy and Construction Skills Centres at Bridgwater College and in West Somerset Community College, which will provide the skills in the workforce needed if Britain is to take a lead in the global nuclear new build programme.
Chair of Into Somerset, Cllr Anne Fraser said, “Despite the recent tough economic times, Somerset and its business community has remained resolute, looking for new ways to stay competitive. Change means there are opportunities – opportunities to develop new skills in the workforce and opportunities to build new markets and to secure competitive advantage.”
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