Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho has emphasized that her overriding aim is to lower energy costs for households, asserting that this is crucial for maintaining public support for climate action. Coutinho stated that if people are struggling with their energy bills, they are less likely to back the necessary policies for climate change mitigation.
Speaking to BBC News, Coutinho highlighted the importance of public buy-in for the transition to cleaner energy. She indicated that the government's focus on reducing the cost of living, particularly energy expenses, is directly linked to its ability to pursue its environmental agenda. The secretary suggested that a more affordable energy landscape would foster greater public acceptance and participation in climate initiatives.