UK's Roadmap to Net Zero Power by 2030: A Herculean Effort Ahead
Key Ideas
  • UK aims to achieve net zero power by 2030, requiring over 90GW of new generation capacity, with 80GW from renewables.
  • Challenges include tripling offshore wind capacity, doubling onshore wind and solar capacity annually, and expanding low carbon dispatchable capacity.
  • Report highlights the need for increased interconnector power transmission capacity, reduced project lead times, and government support for new technologies.
  • OEUK CEO emphasizes the necessity of coordinated efforts to bring about infrastructure changes on a massive scale, comparing it to the industrial revolution.
Offshore Energies UK (OEUK) has unveiled a strategy, in collaboration with AFRY Management Consulting, aimed at guiding the UK towards achieving net zero power by 2030. The ambitious plan outlines the necessity of adding over 90 gigawatts of new generation capacity, a majority of which, specifically 80 gigawatts, must come from renewables. This involves a significant scaling up of offshore wind capacity, as well as the doubling of onshore wind and solar power capacity annually until 2030. In addition to renewable sources, 15 gigawatts of low carbon 'dispatchable' capacity, including gas-fired power with carbon capture and hydrogen generation, will be crucial for ensuring reliable electricity supply. The report underlines the importance of expanding interconnector power transmission capacity to 21 gigawatts by 2030 to facilitate energy trade with European markets. Overcoming planning challenges will require collaborative efforts to accelerate grid connection agreements for offshore wind projects and secure government support for new power generation capacity. Analysts stress the need for finalizing revenue support schemes for low carbon technologies by 2027 and doubling government-awarded contracts for offshore wind, onshore wind, and solar power. OEUK's Chief Executive, David Whitehouse, acknowledges the monumental task ahead, calling for unprecedented cooperation among government, regulators, and industry to revolutionize the UK's infrastructure. He emphasizes the continuous installation of offshore wind farms and the importance of reliable power sources for times when renewable output is low. Whitehouse advocates for gas-fired power with carbon capture as a crucial component of the net zero power grid. The vision for a greener energy future in the UK involves a comprehensive overhaul of the current energy landscape, requiring swift and decisive action from all stakeholders involved.
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