There are new concerns that a lack of investment in the grid is threatening UK energy infrastructure. This is particularly worrying due to the way the world is aiming for net zero by 2050 and how electricity demand is only set to grow over future years. The UK also has a goal of a carbon-neutral electricity system by 2035.
Backlogs and underfunding
Huge wind farms are now being built in the North Sea and off the Scottish coast. However, those in charge of some of these initiatives have been informed that they will only have a grid connection to the mainland in 2034. This has been linked to vast connection backlogs and underfunded services.
Recently, the National Grid launched its ‘demand flexibility’ service. This initiative sees homes and businesses being paid to reduce their consumption of electricity during ‘peak’ times when there is greater energy demand. Although this has helped many home and business owners to reduce their fuel bills, it also emphasises just how much the grid is struggling to cope with the demand for electricity.
Growing demand
Three coal-fired units needed as backups should the grid fail were due to be closed permanently in September 2022. However, these are still being relied upon and threatening to prevent the UK from meeting its net-zero targets. Even if the grid isn’t efficient enough to meet the demand for clean power, this demand isn’t slowing down. It’s thought that the demand for electricity will double or even triple by the year 2050 due to factors including electric vehicles. The Government has already pledged that no new petrol or diesel cars or vans will be sold from 2030.
The UK also has a Ten Point Plan to meet green power targets. This plan includes aims to ensure that 600,00 heat pumps will be installed each year by 2028. These pumps have considerable electrical demands. It’s been predicted that these heat pumps could add a further 14 TWh to the demand for electricity by the year 2030. This would represent a 5% jump in demand within just seven years.
The challenges faced by the UK grid are substantial, yet it can feel like there is insufficient discussion about this in the media. There is a substantial need to modernise the grid if we are to meet our emission targets and ensure the country has all the power that it needs.
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Get in touch today to find out more about the green energy solutions we can install in your home or business premises. You can reach us today by giving us a call on 01892 514495 or by sending a message to info@ability.uk.com.
