• The NESO Clean Power 2030 report highlights that achieving a fully clean power system by 2030 is within reach for the UK. 

• Success hinges on making timely and effective decisions around planning and grid connections, as well as investing in a diverse mix of technologies. 

• With the REA’s broad expertise across the power system, we are committed to working closely with NESO and Government to ensure our members’ interests are represented and that progress remains on track. 

The Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology (REA) welcomes today’s publication of the National Energy System Operator (NESO) Clean Power 2030 report. The report underlines the urgent need for a diverse mix of technologies to reach the UK’s clean power goals and calls for accelerated action on planning processes and timely grid connections. 

The REA looks forward to collaborating with NESO and industry partners to drive forward these recommendations and support the UK’s transition to a secure, low-carbon energy system, including through the publication of our annual Energy Transition Readiness Index (ETRI) report to be published later this week that will picking up on many of these issues. 

Mark Sommerfeld, Deputy Director of Policy, REA (Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology), said: 

“NESO’s guidance to government confirms that achieving the UK’s goal of a Clean Power system by 2030 is both feasible and beneficial. Decarbonising the grid will not only enhance energy security but also shield the UK from the volatile fossil fuel prices that have driven recent energy cost surges. 

However, NESO highlights the challenges ahead. All pathways to Clean Power 2030 will need to tackle major barriers—issues the REA has long advocated for. This will require a national commitment to upgrading grid infrastructure to enable connections for generation, storage, and clean demand technologies like EVs and heat pumps. 

The report underscores that there is no single solution for achieving Clean Power 2030. The UK has the technologies needed, but realising this goal will require advancing all renewable sources. Wind and solar will form the backbone, while various storage technologies provide flexibility. Bioenergy, including BECCS, offers crucial firm generation and system stability that make Clean Power 2030 achievable. 

The REA and its members look forward to collaborating with the Clean Power Mission within government to turn this ambitious target into a reality.”