#6 Law, Leadership and the Road to Net Zero – A Conversation with Ross Fairley

In this episode, Philippa welcomes Ross Fairley, Senior Partner at Burges Salmon and one of the UK’s leading legal voices in clean energy and the transition to net zero.

Ross shares his journey from environmental law into the fast-moving world of renewables, where he has spent more than two decades advising on offshore wind, hydrogen, carbon capture and landmark decarbonisation initiatives such as Bristol City Leap. Alongside his legal work, Ross has helped shape the wider industry agenda through roles including Chair of RenewableUK’s Strategy Forum.

Together, they explore what it really takes to deliver the energy transition in practice - from navigating emerging technologies and evolving regulation to financing innovation and building effective public-private partnerships.

This conversation looks beyond headlines and policy targets to examine the legal, financial and cultural realities of decarbonisation, and the leadership required to turn ambition into action.

In this conversation, you’ll hear about:

• How Ross moved from environmental law into the renewables sector and why the field continues to attract innovators and entrepreneurs

• Why lawyers and advisers must interpret evolving legislation and “give a view” when the law is still catching up with technology

• How understanding energy technologies at a practical level leads to better advice and more effective project delivery

• Why the transition will require every viable technology, rather than a single winning solution

• The policy and funding challenges that create a “valley of death” for emerging clean technologies

• How collaboration between government, industry groups and advisers helps unlock complex infrastructure projects

• Lessons from Bristol City Leap and the role of public-private partnerships in city-scale decarbonisation

• Why the UK is a global leader in offshore wind, clean energy expertise and high-value consultancy - and where it risks falling behind

• The importance of responsible business, sustainability and culture in attracting talent and delivering long-term value

• Why future generations and commercial realities alike are accelerating the shift towards net zero

Key takeaway

The transition to net zero is not a single technological breakthrough but a complex system change. Success will depend on collaboration, pragmatic regulation, sustained investment and leadership that recognises decarbonisation not as a cost, but as a long-term economic opportunity.

The following podcast is intended to be of a general nature, will not be suitable for everyone, and should not be treated as a specific recommendation. We recommend taking professional advice before entering into any obligation or transaction.

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