← Back to Westminster Hall Debates

Significant Energy Infrastructure Projects: Suffolk Coast

16 September 2025

Lead MP

Jenny Riddell-Carpenter
Suffolk Coastal
Lab

Responding Minister

Michael Shanks

Tags

EconomyScotland
Word Count: 4815
Other Contributors: 4

At a Glance

Jenny Riddell-Carpenter raised concerns about significant energy infrastructure projects: suffolk coast in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key Requests to Government:

The Government should work with Jenny Riddell-Carpenter to require developers to reconsider their proposals to minimise disruption to people and the environment. There needs to be oversight of the cumulative impact of all NSIP schemes in an area, which could be managed by a new overarching body.

How the Debate Unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:

Lead Contributor

Suffolk Coastal
Opened the debate
Up to 30% of Britain’s future energy is expected to be generated in, or transmitted through, Jenny Riddell-Carpenter's constituency. The lack of coordination between the plans for nationally significant infrastructure projects within a small 10-mile radius poses challenges for local communities and important national landscapes.

Government Response

Michael Shanks
The Minister of State, Department for Energy Security and Net Zero
Government Response
Thanking the MP for raising this issue, the minister acknowledges the need for better co-ordination in planning energy infrastructure projects. He highlights the government's commitment to building critical infrastructure as part of their economic growth plan and underscores the importance of moving towards clean power for energy security. The minister emphasises that the UK must build new nuclear, renewables, and storage facilities to reduce exposure to fossil fuel volatility. Discussed the nationally significant infrastructure project process, highlighting its necessity and robustness. Mentioned cumulative impact assessments and local authority involvement in planning decisions. Acknowledged delays costing £1.5 million a month per some large projects. Discussed the Planning and Infrastructure Bill to streamline NSIP processes, focusing on public engagement and strategic planning for energy infrastructure. Emphasised the strategic spatial energy plan (SSEP) and centralised strategic network plan (CSNP) as key parts of future energy system design, aiming to map out optimal locations and types of energy infrastructure needed by 2027. Announced community benefit initiatives, guidance on community funds, and a bill discount scheme. Emphasized the importance of strategic planning and partnership with communities to build a resilient energy system.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy

About Westminster Hall Debates

Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.