Written question asked by Carla Lockhart (Democratic Unionist Party) on Monday, 18 May 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 20 May 2026. It was answered by Katie White (Labour) on Wednesday, 27 May 2026 on behalf of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.

Carbon Emissions: Costs

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what comparative assessment he has made of the opportunity cost of (a) public expenditure on net zero policies and (b) alternative uses, including tax reduction and energy bill relief.

Answer

The case for clean energy and climate action is stronger than ever. If we do not take action now, we will miss out on all the opportunities of the transition – including reducing our exposure to volatile fossil fuel markets, protecting bill payers, warmer homes, cleaner air, good jobs and increased access to nature.

This is an investment in our infrastructure, our economy and our future. The OBR has been clear that the economic costs of delayed or insufficient action are far larger than the investment requirements of a managed transition, and estimates that under a 3°C global warming scenario, UK GDP could be around 8% lower by the early 2070’s, compared to a no climate change baseline.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 2202
Session: 2026-27
Grouped for answer: Yes
Subjects: Costs Energy Public expenditure Carbon emissions Taxation Bills
Contains statistics: Yes
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk

Carbon Emissions: Costs

Secondary information

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