Top business energy leaders and politicians from the East of England were at the House of Commons to press the Government for greater recognition and more support for the region’s rich array of energy resources.
Industry association EEEGR (East of England Energy Group) sponsored the reception to deliver the message that it represents the richest and most diverse energy region in the UK - but must have public and private investment to harvest those riches.
Nearly 200 guests were buoyed by encouragement from Energy Minister Charles Hendry who saw the East of England as "a spectacular energy region" and home to one of the most exciting industries in the country.
He admitted his concern that 90% of contracts for the world's largest windfarm at London Array went outside the UK and recognised the region’s own disappointment at missing out on money granted to assisted areas.
So he would press for more involvement for the region’s businesses and encourage the Crown Estate, which oversees contracts for UK offshore wind industry, to work closely with the East of England’s energy industry and ports.
Alan Barlow, chairman of TMS client EEEGR, told the gathering that the region's energy assets and prospects mirrored Government demands for a balanced energy mix - one which is sustainable, affordable, secure and low carbon.
"Our region is a world leading all energy hub with, at a conservative estimate, £50bn worth of business to be won and a compelling case for investment. But Government's subsidy support to Scotland and northern England creates an imperfect market.
Great Yarmouth MP Brandon Lewis, who hosted the event, added: "EEEGR do a fantastic job in getting the message across and its strength cannot be underestimated. There is real economic growth to come from this."
EEEGR founder and chief executive John Best said there had never been a more exciting and demanding time for the region.
"We're marking that with a stronger new image and bolder approach to encourage our 340 members and all industry representatives to speak with one compelling voice about this region’s strengths and potential value to the UK," he said.
