Lowestoft MP calls for faster energy delivery as industry gathers in Parliament
Asato said the government’s approach to energy must focus on both affordability and security.
Jess Asato has called for faster progress on major energy projects, as industry leaders from across the East of England meet in Westminster.
A 200-strong delegation from the region’s energy sector gathered at the House of Commons this week for a reception hosted by the Lowestoft MP, aimed at setting out how the UK can strengthen energy security, reduce costs and drive economic growth.
The event, organised by the East of England Energy Group, brought together companies involved in offshore wind, nuclear, gas and emerging technologies such as hydrogen and carbon capture.
Speaking ahead of the reception, Asato said the government’s approach to energy must focus on both affordability and security.
She said: “The government’s energy plans is about both delivering cheaper bills, but also national energy security. A more secure energy system helps protect people from the kind of price shocks that we’ve seen in recent days and years.”
The East of England already produces around a third of the UK’s electricity and gas, with major infrastructure stretching from Bacton to Sizewell C and the Southern North Sea.
Asato said that provided a strong foundation for future growth, but warned that infrastructure would need to keep pace.
“There is a lot happening and infrastructure will need to keep pace, but with the right investment and focus, I’m confident that we can support the growth and deliver jobs, investment and long-term opportunities for places like Lowestoft,” she said.
Industry leaders at the event highlighted tens of billions of pounds of planned investment in the region, alongside the potential to create thousands of jobs and build a stronger UK supply chain.
Asato also acknowledged concerns from communities affected by large-scale developments, including Sizewell C.
“Local people who are seeing disruption in their lives because of big energy projects like Sizewell C are right to expect to see something in return,” she said.
She pointed to a deal expected to create around 500 jobs linked to the project, alongside wider investment in skills and education, including new sixth form provision in Leiston.
The reception comes amid continued pressure on household finances, with energy prices remaining a key issue for many.
Asato said reducing reliance on global gas markets would be key to stabilising costs.
“No single policy guarantees lower bills overnight. What we can do is reduce our reliance on volatile global gas markets… and by generating more of our own energy and fixing how the system works, we can make bills more stable and bring them down over time,” she said.
The MP is now urging government and industry to accelerate delivery.
“I’m asking for action to speed up delivery. That means quicker grid connections, investment in the infrastructure needed to bring power onshore and removing the delays that are holding projects back,” she added.
Organisers say the event is intended to ensure the East of England plays a central role in shaping the UK’s long-term energy strategy, with a focus on turning existing plans into tangible benefits for local communities.