Tuesday 8 August 2023

New report slashes renewable infrastructure delivery time

The UK’s Electricity Networks Commissioner, Nick Winser, has submitted recommendations into how the UK can accelerate the deployment of electricity transmission infrastructure.

According to the review, a transformation of the electricity transmission network is necessary to reach the government’s goal of a decarbonised electricity system by 2035 and net zero by 2050.

The Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology (REA) said the government must prioritise to implement the recommendations.

Dr Nina Skorupska, Chief Executive of the REA, said: “Delays in connecting new renewable generation and energy storage assets remains one of the largest barriers to the UK’s ability to deliver a secure, affordable and decarbonised electricity system.

“It is also slowing our ability to build the infrastructure needed to meet the growing demand for both electric vehicle (EV) charging and the electrification of heat.

"Given the government’s stated ambition to fully decarbonise the electricity grid by 2035, current connection delays in excess of 10 years are simply untenable.”

The government believes a co-ordinated effort is necessary to fully decarbonise the UK.

Energy Secretary Grant Shapps, said: “I welcome and would like to highlight the recommendations for industry within the report.

“The private sector will be critical in accelerating the deployment of electricity transmission infrastructure and government, Ofgem and industry will need to work closely together to realise its full potential.”