First 100 Days: Reflections on the Government’s policies to date 

The first 100 days of a new government may be an arbitrary milestone, especially when factoring in recesses that have limited Parliament’s time in session. Additionally, the looming Budget Statement on 30 October has likely prevented ministers from announcing policies at their own pace. Despite these factors, reviewing the government’s progress so far is still valuable. The REA laid out a roadmap ahead of the election to gauge the government’s trajectory in the renewable energy and clean technology sector, making it useful to assess where we currently stand. 

Labour’s early moves 

The Labour administration has moved quickly, with several major announcements in key areas such as grid infrastructure, planning, and clean technology. Within days of taking office, Labour removed the de facto ban on onshore wind deployment in England, marking a swift and decisive shift. 

A new governmental unit called the ‘Mission Control’, was set up and tasked with overseeing the ambitious target of delivering clean power by 2030. This unit sits alongside a broader National Wealth Fund aimed at attracting investment in infrastructure projects, particularly those that will accelerate the energy transition. 

July saw the confirmation (subject to legislation) of Great British Energy, a publicly owned entity that focuses on supporting investment and construction in the renewables sector. Alongside this, Labour has rolled out targeted policies, such as consultations on reintroducing stricter Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) for private-rented homes, and in crucial areas in the past few weeks on carbon capture and long-duration energy storage. 

REA’s First 100 Days progress report 

Ahead of the election, the REA published a series of documents detailing our strategic priorities for the government’s first 100 days. These documents outlined recommendations across various sectors critical to the UK’s clean energy transition. Now that Labour’s first 100 days are behind us, we’re encouraged by the government’s actions, though much remains to be done. We will continue to advocate for the policies that align with our recommendations and push for meaningful progress as the government settles in and sets its course with the forthcoming Budget. 

The REA’s “First 100 Days Action Plan” serves as a comprehensive overview of our priorities for the sector. You can access the full plan here: The First 100 Days Action Plan. Below is a quick summary of what the REA has been advocating for, with links to more detailed sector-specific progress. 

1. Cross-Pillar Policy: The REA’s cross-pillar strategy outlines a broad, cohesive approach to energy transition policies. The government’s early announcements align with several of our recommendations, particularly around grid infrastructure and planning reforms. Read more here. 
2. Circular Bioresources: The bioresources sector is vital for creating a circular economy. Unlike other sectors, we have seen very little in this area, and while we welcome the confirmation of Simpler Recycling and possible moves to review the roles of regulators, more progress is needed as recycling rates have started moving in the wrong direction. Full report. 
3. Heat and Cooling: While positive mood music, progress has also been slower in this area. While there are commitments to CCUS and consultations on energy efficiency, comprehensive policies to decarbonise heating still need development. Find more details here. 
4. Power and Flexibility: This has seen good progress and very positive moves so far, for example the green lighting of a number of large solar projects, return of onshore wind and ambitious CfD budget and targets. The government has also made important announcements regarding grid reform and confirmed long awaited support for longer duration energy storage (something REA were closely involved in), though much remains to be done to implement these. Power and Flexibility insights. 
5. Transport: The decarbonisation of transport is another critical area where early government moves, such as confirming new Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) support and the stated aim of reinstating the 2030 phase-out date for sales of new petrol & diesel cars, show promise. However, it’s vital that these policies are backed by more comprehensive plans. More on transport here. 

Looking ahead 

As we move beyond this 100-day marker, the REA remains committed to working with the government to shape a future-proof and resilient clean energy sector. While Labour’s early actions signal positive steps, the upcoming Budget will provide a clearer indication of the government’s direction. We look forward to pressing on with progress and will continue to advocate for the policies that will benefit our members and the wider sector as a whole. REA members can read our budget submission here.  

Rollo Maschietto 

Public Affairs Manager, REA