Sarah Samuel’s Post

The National Infrastructure Commission has published its latest annual assessment of the progress that government has made on implementing its commitments on infrastructure. The NIC describes progress on infrastructure policy, funding and delivery as “mixed”. Given the scale and pace of change required to deliver the infrastructure people expect to support a modern economy, government and regulators need to accelerate decision-making, increase investment and secure public acceptance if the UK is going to close its infrastructure gap. #sustainability #netzero #publicpolicy #strategy #regulation #consumers #leadership #delivery #energy

The The Office for Environmental Protection has published its report looking at progress towards improving water quality in England. Its not encouraging reading – the OEP’s assessment is that the government is not on track to meet its Environmental Objectives under the Water Framework Directive, with the objectives for 2027 most at risk. With the 2024 price review well underway, Ofwat and Environment Agency will need to incorporate these findings in to its regulatory approach so that the water companies are playing their part in delivering better water quality. #sustainability #netzero #publicpolicy #strategy #regulation #consumers #leadership #delivery #energy

Really enjoyed this report from Nesta and Complete Strategy looking at options to reform the retail energy market to drive decarbonisation. The current model was designed for a very different time and if we want to deliver change then it maybe time for a radical change to the retail markets too. For me, whether we stick to the current model or change to a completely new one, having customers at the centre is key so that they get the right service at the right price. The energy market is complicated but making it simple for customers will ultimately drive change. #sustainability #netzero #publicpolicy #strategy #regulation #consumers #leadership #delivery #energy

This was a very stimulating discussion about the economics and politics of climate change a radically different view of how to drive progress (ditch the UNFCCC process for a start). The 'brutal realism' is sometimes necessary to keep us grounded - I generally think of myself as a 'climate pragmatist' but having listened to this I might put myself more in the optimist camp. #sustainability #netzero #publicpolicy #strategy #regulation #consumers #leadership #delivery #energy

Last week, the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero published work completed by Baringa looking at supply chain readiness for deploying renewables in the UK (link in article). As well as looking at the three key three technologies of offshore wind, onshore wind and solar PV, the research also covered transmission and distribution networks - a vital underpinning for all technologies. My blog this week shares my reflections on what this might mean for how Ofgem approaches the upcoming price control.  How do you think policymakers can support supply chains? #sustainability #netzero #publicpolicy #strategy #regulation #consumers #leadership #delivery #energy