Great British Energy Bill Passed: UK Launches Public Clean Power Company
Britain’s landmark legislation to establish a publicly owned energy company has officially passed through Parliament, marking a major milestone in the government’s clean energy strategy. The new entity, Great British Energy, is designed to accelerate the rollout of homegrown renewable power, cut bills, and boost energy security and jobs across the country.
£8.3 Billion to Boost Clean Energy Projects
The legislation gives Great British Energy the full backing to invest in strategic clean power projects and work alongside the private sector to advance new technologies such as floating offshore wind. Backed by £8.3 billion over the course of this Parliament, the company will play a central role in the UK’s transition to cleaner energy as part of the government’s Plan for Change and modern Industrial Strategy.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said the goal of Great British Energy is to give the public a stake in clean power while cutting bills and delivering long-term benefits. He added that the company reflects a simple principle — that Britain’s natural resources should serve the people — and will help make the UK a clean energy superpower.
Local Benefits: Solar Power for Hospitals, Schools, and Communities
A £200 million fund has already been launched to install rooftop solar and support renewable schemes in public buildings and local communities. One early example is NHS Humber Health Partnership, which received nearly £8.5 million in April to help cut energy costs at a hospital in Hull — expected to save up to £14.2 million over the lifetime of the project.
In Scotland, a £4 million community energy fund opened this week for local projects like small-scale wind, solar, and hydro. In Wales, nearly £3 million in Great British Energy funding has also been allocated to support local renewable developments.
Focus on British Supply Chains
In addition to direct investments, the company is working to strengthen the UK’s clean energy supply chain. A £300 million fund has already been announced to support manufacturing for offshore wind components — including floating platforms and cables — in industrial regions of the UK.
Looking ahead, the government says it will soon outline Great British Energy’s strategic investment priorities, including how it will assess the public value of future energy projects.