The next government has been urged to decide on continued membership of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) by the end of this year.
In its manifesto for the next election, “Powering Britain”, RenewableUK calls for whichever party wins next month’s general election to commit to a decision on participation in the ETS and to engage with reform of the scheme, as long as the UK remains a member.
During the upcoming Article 50 negotiations, the renewable energy trade body has also called for the UK to retain its membership of the EU internal energy market and the ability to move products, services and a skilled workforce between the UK and Europe.
In addition, the manifesto says the single energy market across the island of Ireland should be maintained.
Regarding domestic policy, the manifesto also calls on the government to secure cheap new generation by confirming existing commitments to the “Pot 2” Contract for Difference auctions.
And it says investor confidence can be maintained by bringing forward policies to deliver the UK’s commitments in the 4th and 5th carbon budgets.
RenewableUK’s executive director Emma Pinchbeck said: “As we look to leaving the European Union, the next Government can show leadership by bringing forward a plan to deliver the UK’s climate commitments and maintaining a robust carbon price floor.
“Stable policy will allow industry to keep delivering. Government should be at the heart of building our strong energy future”.