- Leadership Appointment: Chris Stark, ex-CEO of the Climate Change Committee, to head Mission Control.
- Objective: Achieve UK clean power by 2030, enhancing energy independence and reducing bills.
- Strategic Collaboration: Mission Control to work with key energy bodies like Ofgem and National Grid.
Chris Stark Leads Mission Control to Deliver Clean Power by 2030
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has appointed Chris Stark to lead the newly established Mission Control. This initiative is dedicated to propelling the UK towards clean power by 2030. Stark, a renowned climate and energy expert, will spearhead a team aimed at dismantling barriers and accelerating energy projects.
Strategic Leadership
Stark’s extensive experience, including his tenure as CEO of the Climate Change Committee and Director of Energy and Climate Change in the Scottish Government, positions him to drive this mission effectively. “Tackling the climate crisis and accelerating the transition to clean power is the country’s biggest challenge, and its greatest opportunity,” Stark stated. “By taking action now, we can put the UK at the forefront of the global race to net zero – driving down our carbon emissions but also cutting bills for households.“
Mission Control’s Role
Mission Control will serve as a centralized hub, collaborating with entities such as Ofgem, the National Grid, and the soon-to-be National Energy System Operator. This coordination is essential to expedite the integration of new power infrastructure and ensure the delivery of clean, cost-effective energy to homes and businesses. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband emphasized, “This new Mission Control centre, benefitting from the expertise and experience of Chris Stark’s leadership – and bringing together the brightest and best in the national interest – will have a laser-like focus on delivering our mission of clean power by 2030.“
Expert Guidance
The Electricity System Operator has been tasked with providing independent advice on the pathway to 2030. This includes expert analysis of the necessary new investments and infrastructure locations to meet the clean power goal. CEO Fintan Slye remarked, “I am excited to work with the Secretary of State on the blueprint for the future of our power system. I also look forward to working with industry and stakeholders across Great Britain as we undertake this critical analysis.”
Related Article: 80% of UK Dealmakers Now Prioritize ESG Due Diligence in Transactions, Reports KPMG
National Benefits
The establishment of Mission Control is part of broader efforts, including the launch of Great British Energy, a new public entity focused on developing energy infrastructure. These initiatives aim to cut energy bills, create jobs, and enhance national security by reducing reliance on volatile fossil fuel markets. Miliband noted, “Making Britain a clean energy superpower will not only keep bills down, it will also create hundreds of thousands of good jobs, while protecting national security by keeping dictators out of our energy markets.”