Andrew Bowie MP unveiled as new co-chair of the Solar TaskforceAndrew Bowie MP unveiled as new co-chair of the Solar Taskforce

Following a reshuffle within the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ), Graham Stuart MP has been replaced by Andrew Bowe MP as co-chair of the Solar Taskforce.

Stuart, who was formerly responsible for renewable energy in the government, has now handed over the mantle to Bowie. It is worth noting that Bowie also leads on nuclear, international energy, energy investment and supply chains.

The Taskforce, which had first been introduced as part of the government’s ‘Energy Security Day’ package following calls for its creation in Chris Skidmore’s Independent Review of Net Zero report, is aiming to drive forward the necessary action that will be required to reach the pre-established target of 70GW solar power capacity by 2035.

Stuart, who had operated as co-chair alongside Chris Hewett, CEO of Solar Energy UK, commented earlier this year that the Taskforce would have a “laser-like focus on cutting the costs and breaking down the barriers to harnessing the power of the sun in every way we can, all while using a small fraction of this country’s land”.

The Taskforce will now look to develop a roadmap in delivering the 70GW solar power target with this publication expected to be released early next year.

“The news of Graham Stuart’s change of duties is unfortunate timing, but I would like to thank him for being a most effective co-chair of the Solar Taskforce alongside me and a genuinely enthusiastic champion of solar energy,” said Hewett.

“We look forward to engaging with Andrew Bowie as the taskforce begins to conclude its work, as well as continuing to work with Minister Stuart as he takes on the critical brief of addressing network issues.”