Britain’s shift to a low-carbon energy system faces significant hurdles, according to a new report from the state-owned grid operator.
The National Energy System Operator (NESO) highlights the need for substantial investments in transmission infrastructure and changes in energy demand patterns. The report also emphasizes that natural gas-fired power plants will need to remain as backup sources, even after the country meets its transition goals.
To meet targets, the pace of expanding renewable energy sources must accelerate. The NESO warns that in the next two renewable energy auctions, Britain will need to approve more offshore wind capacity than in the previous six auctions combined. The country aims to build between 28 and 35 gigawatts (GW) of new capacity by 2030. Onshore wind power capacity must double to 27 GW, and solar power must increase threefold to 47 GW, from its current 15 GW.
The energy transition, as outlined in government plans, will require annual investments of approximately £40 billion ($52 billion). This includes funding for nearly 2,700 miles of offshore cables and 620 miles of onshore cables.
Despite the growth in wind and solar energy, Britain will still need to rely on gas-fired power plants to provide backup power during periods of low renewable generation. Gas-fired capacity currently makes up about a third of the country’s energy supply, but it is expected to drop to 5% by 2030. However, none of the existing gas plants will be shut down and will remain available for emergencies.
Interestingly, the NESO concludes that maintaining the UK’s energy system by 2030 will not cost more than it does today, despite the need for increased investment and the continued use of gas-fired plants.
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