The Welsh public sector net zero goal is unlikely to be reached by 2030, according to a new report from the national spending watchdog, which found that decarbonisation has slipped down the priority list amid financial and political pressures.
The auditors said public bodies across sectors acknowledge the importance of cutting emissions. However, since 2022, overall budget strains have made it difficult to invest in decarbonisation, and some organisations described long term costs as unaffordable.
Welsh public sector net zero plan lacks clear targets
The report criticized the government for describing its 2030 ambition as a collective aim rather than a defined target. It noted there are no penalties or incentives to drive compliance, adding to uncertainty over how much priority public bodies should give to carbon reduction.
Auditors found limited progress in estimating what it will cost to decarbonise in the near and longer term. Where figures exist, several organisations said the likely bill is beyond their means.
Ann-Marie Harkin of Audit Wales said there are positive examples of action under way, but overall progress has fallen short and more needs to be done for future generations.
Background to the 2030 ambition
In 2017, the Labour government in Wales set out a vision for a net zero public sector by 2030, arguing public bodies are uniquely placed to influence emissions through buildings and transport. The idea was that government backed agencies moving first on electric vehicles and charging, renewable power and low carbon heating would help lower costs and smooth the path for the wider public.
The collective ambition does not require every organisation to hit net zero individually by 2030. Instead, it is intended to provide a common direction and ensure all public bodies contribute to reducing emissions.
Government response and next steps for Welsh public sector net zero goal
A Welsh government spokesperson said a net zero public sector remains a priority. Officials said they want to continue supporting decarbonisation to cut emissions and energy bills and to strengthen energy security. They added the 2030 ambition has driven action and leadership, while acknowledging more work is needed across and beyond the public sector.
The current Plaid Cymru government aims for Wales as a whole to reach net zero by 2040. That timeline is a decade earlier than the existing legally binding target for Wales and the UK.
