Recent figures released by RenewableUK Cymru have shed light on the pressing need for rapid expansion of grid capacity in Wales to meet its ambitious goal of sourcing 100% of its electricity from renewable energy by 2035.
Currently, the country boasts 1.98GW of fully commissioned installed wind energy generation capacity. The majority of this capacity, accounting for 63%, is derived from onshore projects. Notably, Wales is home to Pen y Cymoedd, the largest wind farm in the country, developed by Vattenfall in South Wales.
However, data from RenewableUK's Energy Pulse team reveals that an additional 3.95GW of wind energy projects, including onshore, fixed offshore, and floating offshore wind, are awaiting approval in the planning pipeline. This surge in potential projects would require twice the current grid capacity.
Furthermore, plans are underway for an extra 4GW of floating offshore wind projects in the Celtic Sea region of Wales and south-west England. This highlights the urgent need for investment to ensure that the future grid infrastructure can meet the rising demand for energy generation across the nation.
RenewableUK Cymru emphasized that as the transition from fossil fuels to renewables progresses, electrical power consumption is expected to double. This increase will stem from the growing reliance on electricity for various aspects of daily life, including the use of electric vehicles and heating systems.
The industry body emphasized that the future electricity grid network will need to undergo significant changes compared to its current centralized structure, which relies heavily on large-scale power stations. Instead, a decentralized network with smaller-scale power generation spread across different regions is envisioned.
Jessica Hooper, Director of RenewableUK Cymru, stressed the commitment to establishing an energy system supported by a diverse mix of renewables that brings value to the people of Wales. Hooper emphasized the pivotal role of a grid infrastructure that is fit for future generations in driving Wales' transition to green energy.
Hooper stated, “Without investment, we stand to miss out on the many positive benefits wind energy brings – from lower electricity bills, energy security, jobs, decarbonizing our homes and industry, right through to community benefits and habitat restoration.”
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Collaboration between the UK and Welsh governments was underscored as crucial by Hooper to overcome the grid capacity challenge. While welcoming Ofgem's reform and its statutory duty to assist in achieving net-zero emissions, Hooper called for a clear program of proactive investment in Wales to support renewable energy goals.
The expansion of Wales' renewable energy sector holds immense potential for the country's future, promising not only environmental benefits but also economic growth, job creation, and community development.
