The head of the energy industry’s trade organisation has been picked to lead the government’s independent climate advisor, it was announced today.

Emma Pinchbeck, the chief executive of Energy UK, which represents suppliers and generators, will join the Climate Change Committee (CCC) next month.

She replaces Chris Stark, the CCC’s former chief executive, who was appointed head of the government’s new mission control centre for clean energy in July 2024.

At the CCC, Ms Pinchbeck will advise the government and hold it to account on its commitments to reduce carbon emissions.

She will oversee publications of the seventh carbon budget early next year and the fourth climate change risk assessment in 2026. These key documents outline the UK’s carbon emission limit for the period of 2038 – 2042 and how the country should respond to risks.

Ms Pinchbeck is described as an expert in whole-economy decarbonisation and the energy transition to a low-carbon economy. She has previously been deputy chief executive of the trade body, Renewable UK, and head of climate change at WWF UK.

She said today:

“We are behind on our national targets, and time is running out to catch up with delivery. The Committee’s advice to Government on our international contribution to tackling emissions is being prepared for the climate negotiations this autumn, and our advice to Government on the Seventh Carbon Budget will be published in Spring. It is a busy time for the Committee, and I look forward to getting up to speed.

“I take the opportunity to influence the UK’s progress on reducing emissions incredibly seriously, and to support Government make this transition in the way that most benefits people and the economy. You can expect the CCC to have much to say about this going forward.”

The energy secretary, Ed Miliband, said:

“We are almost halfway through the decisive decade to halt climate change. Emma is joining the Climate Change Committee at a pivotal point, and following her leadership at Energy UK, is well placed to advise and challenge government on our net zero goals – ensuring we meet our climate commitments with ambition and urgency.

“Emma’s extensive experience brings a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by industry, underscoring how the economics of clean energy are now aligned with climate policy, driving both environmental protection and economic growth. 

“I look forward to working closely with Emma and the Climate Change Committee to ensure the UK remains at the forefront of tackling climate change.”

Professor Piers Forster, interim chair of the CCC, said:

“We’ve got important advice to give that needs to focus minds and accelerate delivery. Emma is the ideal person to help us do this, complementing the brilliant collection of analytical experts we already have on staff.

“Climate action needs to speed up across the economy. Emma’s knowledge of the transition within the energy sector and her experience of working with the private sector will help us analyse the success of the Government’s plans to decarbonise the power system. This is needed to underline the roll out of EVs [electric vehicles], heat pumps, and industrial decarbonisation at the pace we need them.”

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