COP26 Outcomes #9: Unblocking investment

The scale and pace of investment that is needed over the next 30 years to meet our net zero commitments globally will test the conventional thinking on infrastructure investment, the allocation of risk in these projects and the political commitment from governments. 

There will be a constant evolution of the political landscape, but investors will be seeking long-term commitments that endure across different electoral cycles. Whilst GB has a long history of ‘grand-fathering’ infrastructure investment, other (equally mature) markets have previously reneged on long-term contractual commitments–particularly in the face of rising consumer costs. Attracting new finance will need a considered approach to support the unblocking of green investment.

There will be the challenge to make sure the commitments made by current governments are not unpicked by future leaders, and that they build upon progress already made. We cannot afford further uncertainty for investors globally. All nations need to prioritise long-term sustainability over near-term affordability in the energy trilemma. 

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