National Infrastructure Commission's findings show that Britain should aim for renewables to meet two-thirds of electricity needs by 2030, and that this can be delivered at the same overall cost as meeting only half of total demand by that date.
David Smith, Chief Executive of Energy Networks Association, which represents the UK and Ireland’s energy networks businesses, said:
“We welcome the NIC’s latest report and fully agree that now is the time to accelerate the roll-out of renewable generation. More renewables needs to be backed by not only a strengthened grid but also a smarter, more agile network, the central focus of our Open Networks project. A smarter, greener grid can help shift demand to when renewables supply is plentiful, supporting the decarbonisation of transport and heat whilst minimising the cost to the consumer.”
Press contacts for journalists
Peter Kocen
Senior Press and Public Affairs Manager
+44 (0)7792 220 974
peter.kocen@energynetworks.org
ENA Press Office
About Energy Networks Association
Energy Networks Association (ENA) is the industry body representing the electricity wires, gas pipes and energy system in the UK and Ireland.
ENA helps its members meet the challenge of delivering electricity and gas to communities across the UK and Ireland safely, sustainably and reliably.
Its members include every major electricity and gas network operator in the UK and Ireland, independent operators, National Grid ESO which operates the electricity system in Great Britain and National Gas which operates the gas system in Great Britain. Its affiliate membership also includes companies with an interest in energy, including Heathrow Airport and Network Rail.
What are energy network operators?
Energy network operators manage and maintain the wires, pipes and other infrastructure which delivers electricity and gas to your home, business and community. They are private companies which are regulated by Ofgem and employ around 40,000 people in Great Britain.