Today, the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, Claire Coutinho, underscored the need for backup gas capacity in the UK’s energy landscape. Coutinho emphasised the necessity of reliable power sources that can be activated on-demand, especially during periods when renewable energy generation may be insufficient due to adverse weather conditions.
Despite the UK’s achievement of constructing the world’s five largest operational offshore wind farm projects and a substantial increase in the share of electricity from renewables, currently at 7%, these sources remain vulnerable. Coutinho warns that without the support of gas backing up renewables, the nation faces the genuine threat of blackouts, highlighting the essential role of gas in ensuring a secure and stable energy supply.
Backing this initiative, the Government contends that embracing backup gas capacity represents the latest and most pragmatic approach to liberating the UK from dependence on foreign leaders. As the nation continues its trajectory towards Net Zero, striking a balance between renewable energy expansion and maintaining a robust backup infrastructure becomes important for securing the energy needs of the UK.
Still on the Path to Net Zero?
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak proudly asserts the UK’s commendable progress toward Net Zero, citing a remarkable “50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions since 1990.” However, he acknowledges the need for a sustainable approach to meet the 2035 goals, ensuring energy security even on overcast, windless days. Claire Coutinho echoes this sentiment, cautioning against compromising citizen safety for the sake of clean energy. She underscores the real-world dilemma faced by nations, emphasising that “if countries are forced to choose between clean energy and keeping citizens safe and warm, believe me they’ll choose to keep the lights on.”
Experts weigh in on the landscape of achieving Net Zero. CEO at Energy System Catapult, Guy Newton states ‘‘It is increasingly clear that the only way we can get to a net zero electricity system in time and without pushing up bills is to move to a market that reflects local supply and demand.” Managing Director at Aurora Energy Research, Dan Monzani emphasises urgent action for energy security, calling for well-designed market reforms and accelerated network development to optimise renewable electricity utilisation.
CEO at National Grid, Jon Butterworth, emphasises the role of gas as a vital bridge to a clean power system, especially in complementing the growth of renewables. He stresses the importance of developing flexible power technologies like hydrogen and gas with carbon capture and storage to achieve a Net Zero power system. This raises the crucial question: Does carbon capture deserve more attention in the pursuit of sustainability?
Counterarguments emerge, pointing to the viability of carbon capture technology and the substantial growth in the green economy, which is expanding at 9%. Advocates contend that this presents an opportunity to create a new economy centred around carbon capture, underscoring its potential as a crucial player in the net zero transition.
In response to the Government’s gas-focused strategy, Caroline Lucas MP states “If the Government were serious about protecting the planet, securing our energy supply and enhancing our prosperity and wellbeing, they would be investing urgently and at scale in the energy storage, interconnectors and infrastructure the UK needs for a nationwide renewables revolution, rather than continuing to leave people vulnerable to volatile fossil fuel price hikes.”
Net Zero: National Interest Over Ideology? A Push for Affordability
The Government’s commitment to Net Zero extends beyond rhetoric, delving into pragmatic proposals that could revolutionise the national energy landscape. In a strategic move, plans for regional electricity pricing are brought to the table, allowing for varied charges based on geographical demand. A quarter of the UK’s renewable energy, predominantly generated in Scotland, highlights the necessity of flexible pricing to align supply with demand, potentially reducing costs for households nationwide. These reforms have the potential to cut £45 off yearly energy bills.
Claire Coutinho emphasises the critical link between controlling energy prices, protecting families and businesses from future shocks, and ensuring national security. She advocates for a hard-headed approach, prioritising the national interest over ideological considerations.
Minister of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Graham Stuart reinforces the Government’s commitment to securing a strong and diverse energy supply, claiming “We plan for all eventualities, and the public should be confident that we have a strong and diverse supply, we have taken all the steps to look after our needs for the winter… and to ensure we aren’t in a vulnerable position again in the future.”
Final Thoughts:
In navigating the intricate landscape of Net Zero ambitions and national interests, the UK Government’s strategies underscore a balance. Claire Coutinho’s call for backup gas capacity reflects a pragmatic commitment to energy security, acknowledging the challenges posed by intermittent renewable sources.
While critics argue for greater emphasis on carbon capture and renewables, the Government contends that regional electricity pricing is a step towards aligning supply and demand, potentially reducing costs for households.
As the UK charts its course towards a sustainable future, finding this equilibrium between Net Zero and national interest becomes paramount, ensuring that both environmental goals and the wellbeing of citizens are equally prioritised.
In Chamber UK’s upcoming print journal, Graham Stewart writes extensively about the role of the UK as a global leader in Net Zero. If you want to read full article – you can register for a copy of our print journal here.
