Delivering Net Zero: A fairer approach

On 20 September, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak set out a more pragmatic, proportionate and realistic approach to reaching net zero by 2050.

The revised approach is possible because the UK has over-delivered on reducing emissions, cutting emissions faster than any other G7 country over the past decades.

The new plans will ease the burden on working people but will also build in more time for businesses to implement their plans and transition.

The ban on the sale of petrol and diesel cars will be moved back from 2030 to 2035, giving more time for government and business to build up our EV supply chain in line with our commitment to make the UK one of the best places in the world for automotive investment.  Japanese automotive investment has been strong in the UK over the past 3 decades.

The ban on new fossil fuel boilers for certain households will be delayed while cash grants for boiler upgrade schemes will increase by 50% to £7,500.  This will support more investment into the UK’s heat pump industry from Japan and other global partners.

To boost energy security the PM also announced a ‘fast track’ process for nationally significant infrastructure project plans, a new approach to grid connections and a new Green Futures Fellowship to develop breakthrough green technologies.

We hope this new, more pragmatic approach makes the UK an even more attractive partner for Japan and supports UK businesses in the Japanese market.  Please do reach out to our team at Export to Japan at [email protected] if you have any questions.