REA responds to E3G Clean Power Mission report

Samantha Smith, Head of Heat and Biomass UK at the REA (Renewable Energy Association) said:

“We welcome the clear message that clean power 2030 can be achieved, with renewables bringing down consumer bills and increasing the UK’s energy security. We support calls in relation to extending the duration of Contracts for Difference and reducing financing costs. However, we are concerned about some of the underlying assumptions within the report and reliance on just a handful of renewable technologies.

To tackle climate change, achieve our net zero ambitions, and deliver clean power 2030, we need to use every tool in our toolbox. Every feasible pathway to decarbonise our economy identifies a critical role for sustainable biomass and Bioenergy Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS) – delivering consistent power and carbon removals both now and in the future. This report fails to recognise the wider role of biomass, focusing instead on just one biomass generator, which sit at odds with NESO’s own Clean Power 2030 report.

The report also fails to recognise the significant potential of biomethane in helping to decarbonise our gas grid and transport sector. While green hydrogen has an important role play, other forms of Long Duration Energy Storage – pumped hydro storage and compressed air storage – are also needed.

If we are going to deliver Clean Power 2030, the vital role that dispatchable low carbon plants can play must be recognised.”