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Posted 2 years ago | 3 minute read
UK can achieve net zero by 2035, but flexibility will be vital
With substantial, co-ordinated investment in renewable generation, low-carbon flexibility, network infrastructure, digitalisation and system operability, the UK could achieve net zero by 2035, a report produced for National Grid Electricity System Operator (ESO) has found.
The report, Day in the Life 2035, which was published on 16 March, provides a snapshot of how a net zero power system could function on a cold, calm and cloudy day in January 2035.
It points to a smarter, increasingly integrated energy system based on renewables and flexibility solutions. It concludes that the technical solutions needed to operate such a system, including energy storage and smart technologies that enable far more consumer participation, are either already available or are attainable with continued innovation.
But the report cautions that achieving this ambition will require a revolution in how the energy system is operated at both a national and local level. It will also require sustained investment in both infrastructure and supporting technology.
It also noted that facilitating energy storage and increasing levels of low-carbon dispatchable generation will be critical, but that this must be matched by action on the demand side to ensure consumers can participate in demand-side flexibility. A critical requirement is a comprehensive net zero strategic delivery plan to accelerate the investment in low-carbon generation, sources of flexibility, network infrastructure and digitalisation, as well as new system and market capabilities. In addition, a step-change in the level of investment, as well as the mobilisation of all parts of the energy industry and the active participation of businesses and energy consumers will be required.
The Day in the Life 2035 power system
Source: National Grid ESO
GridBeyond Managing Director UK & Ireland Mark Davis said:
“Moving to a net zero power system will be a significant challenge, but it is not completely out of reach. This report has demonstrated that it is possible to keep the lights on when the wind isn’t blowing and the sun isn’t shining, providing stakeholders of all types, from generation owners, battery storage operators and industrial consumers are able to participate in markets.
“On calm winter days, all types of demand-side flexibility will be needed and it’s great to see the role that I&C businesses can play in delivering net zero in an equitable and cost-effective way recognised. There is also an opportunity for new sources of energy demand, such as electric vehicle fleets, data centres and crypto miners, to become active system participants flexing their demand in response to price and/or system signals.”
