DESNZ secures £100 billion in clean energy investment

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) is driving the UK's energy transition, recently announcing that over £100 billion of private clean energy investment has been secured. This government body is dedicated to securing the nation's energy supply, protecting households from volatile energy costs, and accelerating the transition to a net zero economy1. Fuse Energy, committed to delivering abundant, cheap, clean energy, aligns its mission with these national objectives, contributing market-driven solutions to the UK's energy landscape.

The UK's energy landscape is evolving rapidly, with significant investments in clean energy. Fuse Energy is at the forefront of this change, offering transparent pricing and smart solutions to help you manage your home's energy efficiently. Click here to switch to Fuse Energy today.

Understanding the department for energy security and net zero

The UK's energy future hinges on a secure, affordable, and sustainable supply. DESNZ was established to tackle these critical challenges head-on.

Formation and purpose

DESNZ was formed, taking over the energy portfolio from the former Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS). Its creation underscored the government's focus on energy independence and climate action. The department's core mission is clear: to ensure the UK's energy security, safeguard billpayers, and accelerate progress towards net zero emissions. This involves overseeing the development and implementation of strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve energy efficiency, and support the widespread adoption of renewable energy technologies across the UK.

The Secretary of State and leadership

DESNZ is a ministerial department led by the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero. As of July 2026, this role is held by Ed Miliband MP. The Secretary of State is a member of the Cabinet and is responsible for setting the overall policy and legislative framework within which DESNZ operates.

Core responsibilities and mandate

DESNZ's mandate is broad, encompassing the strategic pillars of energy security, consumer protection, and climate change mitigation. These responsibilities are intertwined, aiming to create a resilient and sustainable energy system for the UK.

Ensuring UK energy security

A primary responsibility of DESNZ is to guarantee a reliable and secure energy supply for the UK. This involves reducing dependence on international energy markets and increasing domestic energy production, particularly from cleaner sources. The department works to ensure properly functioning energy markets and to build a robust energy infrastructure capable of meeting future demand. This focus on energy independence is crucial for insulating the UK from global price shocks and geopolitical instability.

Protecting billpayers and consumers

Protecting billpayers is a central tenet of DESNZ's work. The department implements various schemes and policies designed to lower energy costs and combat fuel poverty.

Driving towards net zero targets

The UK has legally binding commitments to achieve net zero emissions, and DESNZ is at the forefront of this effort. The department leads the government's mission to accelerate the transition to net zero. This involves developing and enforcing policies that promote energy efficiency, support the adoption of renewable energy technologies, and foster new green industries. DESNZ's priorities include speeding up the delivery of network infrastructure and domestic energy production to meet these ambitious climate goals.

Key initiatives and policy areas

DESNZ translates its core responsibilities into tangible actions through a range of initiatives and policy areas, driving investment, promoting efficiency, and fostering collaboration.

Investing in clean energy and decarbonisation

A significant focus for DESNZ is attracting and mobilising investment in clean energy. The Energy Secretary, Ed Miliband, announced in June 2026 that over £100 billion of private clean energy investment has been secured. This investment supports projects across various clean energy sectors, including offshore wind, nuclear, hydrogen, and carbon capture. The department supports renewables development, strengthening Britain's position as a clean energy superpower.

Supporting energy efficiency and heat pumps

Improving energy efficiency in homes and buildings is vital for both reducing emissions and lowering bills. DESNZ actively promotes schemes and grants to support decarbonisation efforts. A notable initiative is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), which offers grants for heat pump installations. As of 21 July 2026, thousands of homes in England and Wales that currently use heating oil are eligible for a £9,000 grant towards the cost of a heat pump. This increase from the standard £7,500 grant aims to make the transition to cleaner heating more accessible and affordable for rural households.

Collaboration with agencies and public bodies

To deliver its extensive mandate, DESNZ works in close partnership with a network of agencies and public bodies. The department is supported by 14 such organisations, which play crucial roles in implementing policies, regulating the energy sector, and conducting essential research. This collaborative ecosystem is essential for addressing the complex challenges of the energy transition.

The impact of DESNZ on UK energy policy

DESNZ's work has a profound impact on the direction of UK energy policy, influencing everything from infrastructure development to consumer behaviour.

Shaping the energy transition

The department is actively shaping the UK's energy transition by prioritising clean power and accelerating the move away from fossil fuels. This strategic approach is vital for achieving the goal of clean power.

Addressing climate action and innovation

DESNZ is a key player in the UK's climate action, driving innovation across the energy sector. It also works to create new employment pathways in clean energy. This commitment to innovation and skills development is crucial for building a sustainable green economy and maintaining the UK's leadership in the fight against climate change.

The future outlook for UK energy

The path ahead for UK energy involves both significant challenges and considerable opportunities, all guided by DESNZ's strategic direction.

Challenges and opportunities

The UK energy sector faces challenges such as ensuring grid stability with increasing renewable penetration, managing the transition for oil and gas workers, and continuing to reduce energy bills amidst global market volatility. However, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation, economic growth, and job creation in green industries. DESNZ's focus on an active industrial strategy and supporting clean energy supply chains aims to capitalise on these opportunities, creating good jobs and building domestic capabilities across the country.

Aligning with national goals

Ultimately, DESNZ's efforts are aligned with the broader national goals of economic prosperity, environmental stewardship, and social equity. By securing energy supply, protecting consumers, and driving towards net zero, the department contributes to a future where energy is abundant, affordable, and clean. Fuse Energy's mission to deliver terawatt-hours of the cheapest, cleanest energy possible directly supports these national objectives, working to rebuild the energy system from scratch and empower consumers with greater control and transparent pricing. This collective effort aims to ensure a resilient and sustainable energy future for all in the UK.

Managing your home's energy can feel complex, but Fuse Energy makes it simpler. We offer clear pricing, real-time usage data through our app, and 24/7 human customer support to help you stay in control of your bills. Switching to Fuse is quick and easy, designed to give you peace of mind. Click here to switch to Fuse Energy today and join us in building a future with abundant, clean energy. You can also learn more about our mission here.

References

1. UK Government. Department for Energy Security and Net Zero - GOV.UK