Department for Energy Security and Net Zero

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNEZ) was established in February 2023 following a mini reshuffle of Ministers and a governmental reorganisation. The new department is focused on the energy portfolio of the former Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS). It's overarching aim is to secure the UK's long-term energy supply, bringing down bills and halving inflation[1].

DESNEZ has a number of responsibilities including[1]:

  • delivering security of energy supply
  • ensuring properly functioning energy markets
  • encouraging greater energy efficiency
  • seizing the opportunities of net zero to lead the world in new green industries.

Their priorities for 2023 are[1]:

  • Ensure security of energy supply this winter, next winter and in the longer-term – bringing down energy bills and reducing inflation.
  • Ensure the UK is on track to meet its legally binding Net Zero commitments and support economic growth by significantly speeding up delivery of network infrastructure and domestic energy production
  • Improve the energy efficiency of UK homes, businesses and public sector buildings to meet the 15% demand reduction ambition.
  • Deliver current schemes to support energy consumers with their bills and develop options for long-term reform to improve how the electricity market works for families and businesses.
  • Seize the economic benefits of net zero, including the jobs and growth created through investment in new green industries.
  • Pass the Energy Bill to support the emerging CCUS and hydrogen sectors; to update the governance of the energy system; and to reduce the time taken to consent offshore wind

References

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 [1]