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The UK government has launched a comprehensive 10-year industrial strategy aimed at transforming the nation into a global leader in clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and innovation-driven industries. Central to the plan is a commitment to reduce corporate electricity costs while accelerating the transition to a low-carbon economy.
Clean Energy at the Core
At the heart of the strategy is the Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan, which targets over £30 billion in annual clean energy investment by 2035, more than doubling current levels. Since July 2024, the UK has already secured £40 billion in private-sector clean energy commitments.
To support this momentum, Great British Energy will receive an additional £700 million in public funding—building on a previous £300 million commitment—to develop domestic supply chains for floating offshore wind platforms, subsea cables, and hydrogen infrastructure. This injection brings total public-private supply chain funding to £1.7 billion, including support from industry and the Crown Estate.
“Great British Energy will help the UK win the global race for clean energy jobs and growth,” said Dan McGrail, CEO of Great British Energy.
The strategy also expands the Clean Industry Bonus, an incentive program designed to boost clean energy manufacturing in coastal and industrial regions, with a particular focus on hydrogen and onshore wind.
£2.8 Billion for Advanced Manufacturing Innovation
The strategy allocates £2.8 billion over five years to research and development in advanced manufacturing. The funding is intended to scale automation, digitalisation, and commercialisation in key sectors, reinforcing the UK’s position as an innovation hub.
“This government is doubling down on Britain’s clean power strengths… helping deliver good jobs, energy security and lower household bills,” said Energy Secretary Ed Miliband.
Sectoral Investment Beyond Energy
The strategy reflects a broader ambition to lead across frontier industries:
- Life Sciences: £600 million for a new Health Data Research Service to build a secure, AI-ready platform.
- Creative Industries: £150 million growth fund for screen, music, and gaming sectors.
- Professional and Business Services: Adoption of AI tools, mutual recognition of qualifications, and five new regional industry hubs.
- Digital and Technology: Initiatives to position the UK among the top three global innovation ecosystems, with a focus on AI, quantum computing, semiconductors, cybersecurity, and engineering biology.
EU Cooperation and AI Integration
The UK will renew energy cooperation with the EU, particularly in carbon pricing and North Sea energy projects, while exploring participation in the EU’s internal electricity market to enhance integration and reduce regulatory barriers.
To drive innovation, Lucy Yu, CEO of the Centre for Net Zero, has been named the UK’s Clean Energy AI Champion, tasked with leading AI adoption across the energy sector.
“Clean energy is the economic opportunity of the twenty-first century. This plan ensures that the revolution is built in Britain,” the government said.
RELATED: ScottishPower to Invest €262 Million in UK Grid and Drive Job Growth
This industrial strategy marks one of the UK’s most ambitious moves yet toward a resilient, decarbonised economy—placing clean energy, digital innovation, and manufacturing at the centre of national growth.
