The Prime Minister’s 10-point package marks the first substantial climate intervention by a PM since the start of the coalition. That matters. It gives a clear signal outside and, just as importantly, inside Government that Net Zero is a priority. The 2030 ban on new Internal Combustion Engine cars and vans is a huge step that underlines the seriousness of intent. Such a regulatory move is much more important for innovators and investors than any subsidy offered. It also underlines the ‘dance’ between innovation and policy.

The Electric Vehicle Energy Taskforce made 21 proposals in January 2020 to ensure the energy system is able to accelerate the mass take-up of electric vehicles. Energy Systems Catapult has been central to analysing those proposals and recommending EVET focus on 10 high priority actions.

Last week the Prime Minister spoke of “a green industrial revolution that in the next ten years will create hundreds of thousands if not millions of jobs”. Low carbon energy innovation can be the key engine for our post-Covid economic recovery.But to mobilise the investment needed at the pace required, it is imperative we put the right economic signals in place. Right now, in too many sectors, we are subsidising pollution. In effect, we are trying to meet our targets with one hand tied behind our back.

The Living Lab has relaunched for innovation trials after undergoing significant upgrades over the six-months of lockdown – including a new digital integration platform. The Living Lab of connected homes is now truly open, interoperable and scalable, enabling innovative products, services and business models to be tested and integrated with mainstream smart heating controls, smart meters, IoT devices, and electric vehicle chargers.