Wednesday 12 August 2020

Target of 65% renewables by 2030 ‘would better position the UK to net zero’

Implementing a 65% renewable energy target by 2030 could accelerate the UK's journey to net zero.

That's according to the latest report from the National Infrastructure Commission, which advises the government to leave the previous goal of 50% of the UK's electricity behind and states a more ambitious plan could boost the progress of the low carbon transition and offer long-term sustainable growth at no additional cost.

The body explains this would be possible due to the 'dramatic' cost reductions of renewables, which are currently the cheapest form of electricity generation.

The report also suggests alongside deploying renewables, the UK must continue to implement other innovative technologies, including energy storage and efficient interconnectors.

Another recommendation of the report calls for a shift in government policy to encourage private investment to drive innovation.

Chair of the National Infrastructure Commission Sir John Armitt said: "The government should be credited for recent steps to encourage quicker deployment of renewables, and for setting up successful mechanisms for encouraging private sector investments.

"These latest projections suggest we can afford to go further, faster without hitting consumers in the pocket."