Labour’s energy plans for renewables aren’t possible without flexibility
The Association for Decentralised Energy
Ambitious energy plans set out in Labour’s mission to transform Great Britain into a clean energy superpower could potentially save the UK billions if they are voted into power, but only if demand side flexibility is prioritised.
That’s the suggestion from the Association for Decentralised Energy (ADE), which warns that without a clear set of targets and requirements to rapidly upscale flexibility within the energy sector, promises of delivering net zero, lower bills and energy security become further and further away from reality.
The trade association calls for whichever party forms the next government to take the correct steps in their first 100 days towards a smart and flexible energy system, which could:
· Cut £14.1 billion off yearly energy system costs by 2040.
· Save 770,000 jobs.
· Increase carbon savings by 45%.
· Avoid spending £3.5 billion on 4 new gas-fired power plants.
The trade association has recently published a document setting out how the first 100 days of the next government will be vital in ensuring the UK gets back on track with decentralised energy deployment - in particular, on how decisions made will ensure that the full potential of renewable energy is enabled through a smart and flexible system.
Scaling up targets for demand side flexibility across the energy sector is the only way to ensure clean energy can make its way onto the grid whilst ensuring that supply and demand is balanced in an affordable way. A flexible grid will save the taxpayer millions through avoiding unnecessary costs for grid reinforcement, as well as ensuring the public and businesses are empowered by a smart and low carbon energy system.
Natasha Mills, Flexibility Policy Officer at the ADE, said: “Plans set out to transform the UK into a clean energy superpower through renewable technologies are only achievable with equally ambitious plans for flexibility.
“Without prioritising plans to upscale flexibility across homes and industry, the UK will not be able to utilise our available renewable generation in a fair and affordable way. The next government must set out targets for how this will be achieved, using electricity market reform to incentivise the use of flexibility in a way that takes advantage of intermittent renewables and help achieve an affordable and achievable net zero energy system.”
Read the full publication here.
For further comment or interview, please contact external.affairs@theade.co.uk.