Emma Pinchbeck, the head of Energy UK, has been appointed as the new chief executive of the Climate Change Committee (CCC) by the government’s official climate watchdog. This move comes as the UK aims to reach net zero emissions by 2050. Pinchbeck, who previously served as the deputy of RenewableUK, will replace Chris Stark in leading the CCC.
Pinchbeck’s appointment comes at a crucial time as the UK is halfway through a decisive decade to combat climate change. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband praised Pinchbeck’s leadership at Energy UK and highlighted her extensive experience in decarbonizing the energy industry. He emphasized that the economic benefits of clean energy are now aligned with climate policy, driving both environmental protection and economic growth.
Pinchbeck took on the role of Energy UK’s chief executive in January 2020, just before the Covid-19 pandemic caused record low energy market prices and financial challenges for energy companies. The subsequent bounceback in energy prices in 2021 led to the collapse of over 30 energy suppliers. The recent conflict between Russia and Ukraine further impacted energy prices in Europe, prompting the UK government to step in and subsidize bills.
Pinchbeck expressed her excitement in bringing her decade of experience in the energy industry to the challenge of decarbonizing the UK economy rapidly. She emphasized the importance of energy in economic policy and highlighted the need for tangible benefits from the energy transition for the people of the UK. Pinchbeck’s appointment reflects the government’s commitment to driving the country towards a sustainable and low-carbon future.
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