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The small matter of the future
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Albert Einstein’s iconic equation, E=mc squared, teaches us that even a small amount of matter can produce an immense amount of energy. This principle, while rooted in the realm of physics, beautifully illustrates the power of the UK’s approach to clean energy.
We’re investing the equivalent of more than a trillion Australian dollars to the Green Industrial Revolution and the industries of tomorrow. The UK’s clean energy industry is estimated to employ 247,400 full-time equivalent workers. This is no small matter for us, and in return we generate an incredible amount of positive energy in the form of renewables, innovation, collaboration, and global leadership.
The UK is capitalising on new growth sectors and harnessing clean energy.
This isn’t just about reducing carbon footprints; it’s about creating a sustainable economy that benefits everyone. From offshore wind to hydrogen, carbon capture and storage, the UK is capitalising on new growth sectors. The energy is palpable—in every sense.
As the UK’s deputy trade commissioner for the region, I lead our relationships with Australian business leaders. My role is to connect companies and leaders to support across government and industry to resolve their issues and help them thrive. Leadership styles differ from person to person, but one thing I have observed is a true leader doesn’t speak of leading – they do it.
The UK approach to clean energy is the same. From taking a leading role in international climate negotiations as seen by our presidency of the climate summit COP26, to the creation this year of our new Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, and a dedicated secretary of state. From rolling out electric vehicle charging stations to investing in wind and solar energy, the UK is putting the runs on the board.
Our expertise in renewables, technology, and innovation makes us a natural partner for countries like Australia, which shares our climate goals. The UK-Australia Free Trade Agreement has paved the way for easier trade and investment, with zero tariffs and reduced red tape.
The UK is an investor-friendly renewable energy market. As part of the Plan for Growth, we’re championing clean growth and green innovation in every region. The government is providing extensive support to the private sector to unlock investment and boost manufacturing. This means that UK businesses are more innovative and accessible than ever before, offering a major private capital investment growth opportunity.
Louise Cantillon, British Consul-General for NSW, and the Deputy Trade Commissioner for Asia-Pacific.
We’re at the forefront of the global boom in climate tech investment. Companies in Britain are using cutting-edge technology to deliver cleaner, greener energy. The UK has been successful in cutting emissions by 48 per cent between 1991 and 2021, while growing the economy by 65 per cent. We’re committed to delivering our climate targets—net zero by 2050. And it’s not just talk; it’s action. Offshore wind provides a case study for how we nurture and develop new renewable technology.
The collaboration between the UK and Australia continues to strengthen as we build to the COP28 climate summit in Dubai later this year. This will be the first global stocktake as we review of the world’s collective progress made toward meeting the goals of the 2015 Paris Agreement of limiting global heating.
From the FTA environment chapter to the UK clean energy trade mission and the Net Zero Technology partnership, we’re working together as renewable energy superpower partners. The window to limit global temperatures is rapidly closing, and it’s only through partnership we have any hope of meaningful action.
For investors and businesses, the UK offers long-term security in renewable and clean energy solutions. We’re all about building positive business to business relationships, with the shared knowledge between our two countries benefiting everyone involved.
The recent Women’s World Cup demonstrated the power of global collaboration. A game invented by the UK, gifted to the world, and enjoyed by every nation - shame about the final result! Our clean energy leadership is much the same, the only difference is if we succeed, every nation will be a winner.
Our efforts are not only about generating renewable energy; they are about creating a sustainable future, fostering global partnerships, and leading the way in technological innovation. In the spirit of Einstein, the UK has proven that when you invest in the right “matter”, the energy you create can do amazing things.
Louise Cantillon is the British Consul-General for NSW, and the Deputy Trade Commissioner for Asia-Pacific.
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