Drax Power Station (Image: Pic supplied)
DRAX says over four-fifths of people in Yorkshire and the Humber want their local MP to back government efforts to make the economy Net Zero by 2050.
The power generator commissioned Focaldata who surveyed over 1,000 people, finding
almost all (94%) say their MP ought to prioritise creating and protecting local jobs. A total of 78% said it was either very important or vital they do so.
Drax says the poll, released ahead of next Thursday’s Selby and Ainsty by-election, shows the importance that Yorkshire and the Humber residents place on reaching Net Zero and the creation and retention of local jobs.
Richard Gwilliam, Chair of the Humber Energy Board and UK BECCS Programme Director at Drax Group, said: “Local people in Yorkshire and the Humber are clear that they support efforts to create and protect jobs in the region and want their politicians to prioritise getting the country to Net Zero by 2050.
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“This region has a golden opportunity to build on its proud heritage and deliver a green industrial revolution which sees Yorkshire and the Humber become a world-leader in the creation of green jobs while reducing and capturing carbon emissions and continuing to provide energy security.
“Residents want politicians, regardless of the party they belong to, to work together, alongside industry and other organisations, and make this vision a reality.”
Mark Casci, Head of Policy and Representation, West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, says the poll shows people see the opportunity of Net Zero creating and protecting green jobs and skills.
He continued: “It also shows local support for BECCS at Drax, a project that could see up to 10,000 jobs created and supported.
“Voters want their local representatives to publicly back local projects, that will bring new and green jobs, skills and opportunities to West and North Yorkshire. As an organisation representing our area’s businesses – we would wholeheartedly agree. Yorkshire has the potential to be a world-leading exemplar on this future-facing technology and it is crucial Drax is backed to fulfil this mission.”
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The survey also revealed that a significant majority of local residents (82%) agreed