The Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology (REA)
welcomes the Government's ambitious plan to transform the UK's
energy system, with a strong focus on fixing the grid and
streamlining planning to enable faster deployment of renewable
energy projects. These reforms are vital to unlocking billions of
pounds of investment, creating skilled jobs, and achieving the
UK's target of a clean electricity system by 2030.
The Government's commitment to cleaning up the grid connection
queue is a major step forward. With the queue now containing 739
GW of capacity—much of it speculative or stalled—prioritising
ready-to-go projects is essential. Rationalising the queue and
accelerating connections for the most critical projects will
ensure that clean power reaches homes, businesses, and industries
faster, helping to meet climate targets and boosting the
economy.
The REA also highlights the critical role of diverse renewable
technologies in building a resilient and sustainable energy
future. By diversifying the energy mix, these technologies
contribute to local economic growth, job creation, and enhanced
energy security for communities across the UK. The REA also
welcomes the Government's focus on expanding energy storage and
improving system flexibility, which are essential for efficiently
integrating renewables into the grid and maintaining a reliable
energy supply.
The REA supports the Government's pledge to provide greater
clarity on the energy mix needed for 2030, including updated
National Policy Statements for energy. These updates will guide
planners to prioritise critical infrastructure and help deliver
the right mix of clean power at both national and regional
levels. Reforms such as the return of onshore wind projects to
the Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP) regime
and the forthcoming Planning and Infrastructure Bill are critical
to ensuring that delays are minimised and communities see direct
benefits from hosting renewable energy projects.
As the UK transitions to clean electricity, the REA stands ready
to work with the Government and industry to ensure promises
translate into results, delivering a net zero future that
benefits everyone.
Frank Gordon, Director of Policy, REA (Association for
Renewable Energy and Clean Technology), said:
“This plan is an important step forward, providing
much-needed clarity and ambition to deliver a clean electricity
system by 2030. But the hard work starts now. We need urgent
action to tackle the planning delays and grid constraints that
have held back renewable energy projects for too long.
To meet the 2030 target, it is essential that we harness a
diverse range of renewable technologies. A varied energy mix not
only strengthens energy security but also ensures localised
benefits across communities in the UK.
With the right support, this plan can unlock investment,
create jobs, and deliver energy security for the UK.”
