The United Kingdom has moderated its commitment to exclude slave labour from its renewable energy supply chain amid efforts to meet Net Zero emissions targets, according to recent developments. The government’s state-owned company, GB Energy (GBE), previously pledged to avoid funding firms implicated in forced labour practices, particularly those linked to Chinese manufacturers dominant in the solar panel market.

Concerns arose following investigations revealing that solar panels supplied to schools lacked firm assurances regarding their ethical sourcing. Many components used in these panels originate from China’s Xinjiang province, where the government faces international accusations of subjecting the Uyghur Muslim population to forced labour.

In response, the Department for Energy and Net Zero, led by Ed Miliband, introduced a qualification in its procurement policy, stating that it would seek to ensure solar panels are free from forced labour "as far as possible," rather than providing an absolute guarantee. This adjustment came amid wider government plans to eliminate fossil fuels and accelerate renewable energy deployment.

GBE has financed renewable energy installations for public institutions, including schools and hospitals. However, advocates and campaigners expressed strong objections, urging the government to uphold its commitment to measures preventing slavery and human trafficking within its business operations and supply chains.

Sir Iain Duncan Smith, a vocal critic of China’s human rights record, referenced existing legislation that, he argued, contained no such caveats. In contrast, a government spokesperson defended the revised position, affirming that procurement controls remain stringent: "All contracts issued under the schools and hospitals solar initiative complied with UK procurement rules, including extensive requirements under the Modern Slavery Act."

Eleanor Lyons, the Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner, emphasized the ethical implications, stating that efforts to reach Net Zero should not come at the expense of individuals compelled to work under exploitative conditions characterized by long hours and constant monitoring. She noted the government had assured taxpayers that their investments would not support products linked to forced labour.

The policy shift followed reports that GB Energy had awarded contracts to companies unable to guarantee supply chains free from forced labour risk. Human rights experts have classified some of these firms as having a high exposure to forced labour concerns, highlighting tensions between ethical sourcing and the urgent transition to renewable energy infrastructure.