Solar Energy UK
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
14/12/2020
Today the Government published a new consultation on delivering a net zero electricity system with high renewable capacity by 20501, as part of a slate of policy documents including the long-anticipated Energy White Paper.2
The call for evidence notes that renewable generation could quadruple in total capacity over the next three decades, paving the way for a low-cost, low-carbon electricity system. With a range of scenarios modelled, the Government is considering the potential for substantial solar PV capacity growth in the coming years, with highs of 80-120GW required under some scenarios.
This aligns with new analysis published last week by the Climate Change Committee which estimates 75GW-90GW of solar capacity will be required to meet net zero3, as well as that of the National Infrastructure Commission, which has a higher estimate of 121GW.4
STA Chief Executive Chris Hewett said: “Solar’s contribution to a decarbonised electricity system and net zero economy is clear. We look forward to seeing the Government’s plan to maximise the potential of cheap onshore renewables and clean energy storage.”
“Additionally, we welcome the Government’s recognition in the White Paper that solar, storage, and smart controls will be central to decarbonising homes, heating, and transport, and encourage a commitment to clear targets for the deployment of these technologies.”
The STA continues to call on the Government to commit to tripling solar capacity by 2030.5
ENDS
Editor’s notes:
1. Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy – Enabling a high renewable, net zero electricity system: call for evidence: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/enabling-a-high-renewable-net-zero-electricity-system-call-for-evidence
2. Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy – Energy white paper: Powering our net zero future: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/energy-white-paper-powering-our-net-zero-future
3. Climate Change Committee – The Sixth Carbon Budget – The UK’s path to Net Zero: https://www.theccc.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/The-Sixth-Carbon-Budget-The-UKs-path-to-Net-Zero.pdf
4. National infrastructure Commission – Net zero: Opportunities for the power sector: https://nic.org.uk/studies-reports/net-zero-opportunities-for-the-power-sector/
5. Solar Trade Association – STA calls for Government to commit to 2030 solar target to drive green recovery: https://www.solar-trade.org.uk/sta-calls-for-government-to-commit-to-2030-solar-target-to-drive-green-recovery/
For further information or to request an interview, please contact:
Name: Jack Dobson-Smith
Title: Senior External Affairs Adviser
Main line: 0203 637 2946