The National Engineering Policy Centre (NEPC) has called on the UK Government to undertake a national mission to deliver clean power by 2030.
The NEPC’s report, led by the Royal Academy of Engineering, outlines the necessary steps for this ambitious goal, highlighting the need for clear governmental direction and public support.
The report, “Rapid Decarbonisation of the GB Electricity System”, identifies six key elements crucial for achieving the clean power mission.
These include building public and industry support, strong leadership and governance and creating a digitally enabled system for flexible public engagement.
Additionally, a proactive approach to procurement and regulation, addressing planning and connection delays, and maintaining a long term focus are deemed essential.
To meet the 2030 target, the report stresses the importance of increasing offshore wind capacity and expanding onshore wind and solar generation.
Engaging electricity users to align demand with peak renewable generation times and investing in storage solutions are also highlighted as vital measures.
The report suggests adding renewable capacity in areas where the grid can already accommodate new generation without additional power lines.
It also calls for a more proactive supply chain policy to provide clear signals to investors.
Beyond 2030, the NEPC report emphasises the need for progress in hydrogen storage and transmission, expanding carbon capture and storage projects and investing in the distribution network for further electrification of heat and transport.
It also calls for expanding generation through nuclear projects and a broader range of renewables, including tidal energy.
A significant increase in the engineering and technology workforce is required to meet these goals, with an additional 200,000 engineers and technicians needed by 2030.
The report urges the development of a national workforce strategy to address these skill deficits.
Professor Sir Jim McDonald, President of the Royal Academy of Engineering, said: “There is no time to waste in delivering progress towards this crucial aspect of a net zero energy system.
“Decarbonising electricity production, transmission and utilisation under an accelerated timeline, will not only provide societal benefits through an energy system that is less vulnerable to global disruption, but will also create an economic and competitive opportunity for the UK to lead on the infrastructure, technology and engineering skills that will shape the future.”
Dame Dervilla Mitchell, Director, Arup Group, said: “Transforming the UK’s electricity grid to provide 100% clean power will require strong leadership in both engineering and in government, working together towards this critical mission.”
