UK Climate Change Committee Calls for Major Expansion of Renewable Energy in Pathway to Decarbonisation

The Climate Change Committee (CCC) has called for a significant increase in renewable energy generation as part of its newly released pathway to a decarbonised UK. The committee’s Seventh Carbon Budget report outlines a vision for the country to achieve a substantial reduction in carbon emissions by 2050, with renewable energy playing a central role in meeting future electricity demand. Offshore wind, in particular, is identified as the “backbone” of the future energy system, with the CCC recommending a six-fold increase in offshore wind capacity, from 15GW in 2023 to 88GW by 2040. The report also suggests a doubling of onshore wind capacity to 32GW and an increase in solar capacity to 82GW over the same period. The CCC emphasizes the importance of storable energy forms, such as batteries, in ensuring a reliable power supply during periods of adverse weather. The committee further stressed the need for a rapidly expanding transmission grid, upgrades to the distribution network, and a streamlined connection process to accommodate this growing renewable capacity. As demand for electricity is expected to surge, particularly in the 2030s due to the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and heat pumps, the CCC's report highlights the necessity of substantial investment in infrastructure and new technologies. The report outlines that emissions must be reduced by 87% by 2040 compared to 1990 levels, with electrification contributing to 60% of the required emissions reductions. This includes decarbonising the grid and replacing fossil-fuelled vehicles and heating systems with electric alternatives. “Electrification will play a crucial role in reducing emissions,” said CCC interim chair Professor Piers Forster. “We will need government and business to deliver the investment, but we are confident that this Seventh Carbon Budget offers a secure, prosperous future for the UK.” The report also forecasts that the transition to a decarbonised economy will result in significant financial savings. By 2050, households are expected to save £1,400 per year in energy and fuel costs. Private sector investment in infrastructure and new technologies is projected to account for 65% to 90% of the required financing from 2025 to 2050. RenewableUK’s Barnaby Wharton welcomed the CCC’s emphasis on offshore wind, noting its pivotal role in meeting rising electricity demand, particularly as EVs and heat pumps become more widespread. “Building up our energy storage capacity alongside this, with more batteries and green hydrogen, will provide flexibility and strengthen the reliability of our future power system,” Wharton said. Trevor Hutchings, CEO of the Renewable Energy Association, echoed this sentiment, stating that the report’s recognition of renewable technologies as vital for decarbonisation was an important message. “Now is the time to work at speed towards net zero,” Hutchings added, stressing the need for swift action to secure jobs and investments in the sector. The report also drew support from climate change advocates such as Ed Matthew of E3G, who urged the government to accept the recommendations and prioritize a clean energy system to mitigate the impact of volatile gas prices. “This budget must be accepted by government and supported by all political parties if they have any shred of integrity when it comes to protecting the British people from high energy costs,” Matthew said. Dhara Vyas, CEO of Energy UK, highlighted the need for investment in clean, home-grown energy to lower bills and ensure long-term energy security.

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