Driving a Greener Future: SMMT Outlines Ambitious Vision for UK Automotive and Manufacturing
London, UK – July 9, 2025 – The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) today unveiled a comprehensive new report, “Greener Power for UK’s Manufacturing and Markets,” setting out a clear and ambitious roadmap for decarbonising the nation’s vital automotive sector and its broader manufacturing base. Published at 11:38 AM BST, the document highlights the critical role of clean energy in ensuring the competitiveness and sustainability of UK industry in the years ahead.
The report underscores a growing imperative for the UK to accelerate its transition to cleaner energy sources, not only to meet environmental targets but also to secure a robust and future-proof industrial landscape. The SMMT’s analysis emphasizes that access to affordable, reliable, and green electricity is paramount for manufacturers to adapt to evolving global demands and technological advancements.
“Greener Power for UK’s Manufacturing and Markets” delves into the significant opportunities presented by embracing renewable energy technologies. It outlines how increased investment in and deployment of wind, solar, and other low-carbon power generation can directly benefit manufacturing operations, from the energy-intensive processes of vehicle production to the supply chains that support them.
Key recommendations within the report focus on several critical areas:
- Enhanced Energy Security and Affordability: The SMMT stresses the need for policies that promote stable and competitive energy pricing, enabling manufacturers to manage operational costs effectively and invest with confidence. This includes supporting diverse energy portfolios and investing in grid infrastructure to ensure reliability.
- Accelerated Deployment of Renewables: The report calls for streamlined planning and consenting processes for new renewable energy projects, as well as incentives for businesses to adopt on-site generation and energy storage solutions. This will empower manufacturers to control their energy usage and reduce their carbon footprint.
- Investment in Grid Modernisation: A modern, smart grid is essential to accommodate the increasing demand for electricity driven by the transition to electric vehicles and the electrification of industrial processes. The SMMT advocates for significant investment in grid upgrades to ensure capacity and resilience.
- Support for Innovation and Technology: The report highlights the importance of fostering innovation in energy efficiency technologies and advanced manufacturing processes that minimise energy consumption. This includes supporting research and development in areas such as hydrogen power and carbon capture.
- Skills Development: As the energy landscape shifts, the SMMT also recognises the critical need for a skilled workforce. The report calls for investment in training and education programmes to equip individuals with the necessary expertise to support the green energy transition within manufacturing.
Speaking on the release of the report, an SMMT spokesperson commented, “Our industry is at the forefront of a global transformation towards a zero-emission future. To maintain our competitiveness and deliver on our sustainability ambitions, a fundamental shift in how we power our operations is essential. ‘Greener Power for UK’s Manufacturing and Markets’ provides a clear blueprint for how government and industry can collaborate to ensure the UK automotive sector and its vital manufacturing partners have access to the clean, affordable, and reliable energy they need to thrive.”
The SMMT is optimistic that by embracing these recommendations, the UK can not only meet its environmental obligations but also unlock significant economic benefits, foster innovation, and solidify its position as a global leader in advanced, sustainable manufacturing. The report serves as a timely and crucial call to action for policymakers and industry leaders alike.
Greener power for UK’s manufacturing and markets
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SMMT published ‘Greener power for UK’s manufacturing and markets’ at 2025-07-09 11:38. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.