A new report identifying the research and technology needed to
meet the UK's net zero target has been released.
Developed by the Government Office for Science, the Net Zero
Technology Outlook sets out a ‘best estimate' of the technology
mix needed in key emitting sectors to reach net zero by 2050, and
identifies the research and development (R&D) needed to get
there.
In support of the government's Clean Energy Superpower Mission,
this Outlook offers an independent analysis of the technologies
the UK must prioritise by 2050 to deliver on its net zero
commitments. It is a tool for policymakers and the research
community, pinpointing where targeted R&D investment can have
the greatest impact and accelerate progress. By providing clear,
evidence-based insights, the report equips decision-makers with
the confidence to make informed choices that will shape the UK's
net zero future.
By showing the way forward on research and technology around net
zero, the Outlook supports the government's mission to back
homegrown energy technology to grow the economy, create jobs,
boost skills, and strengthen energy independence.
Government Chief Scientific Adviser Professor Dame said:
The UK faces one of the most important challenges of our time –
climate change – and we need brilliant ideas and innovations to
help tackle it. The Net Zero Technology Outlook is our best
estimate of the future when it comes to the technology, research
and development needed to reach net zero. I hope policymakers and
researchers alike will use this report as a guide for their work
to help ensure the best possible outcome on our path towards that
target.
The report covers 18 sub-sectors within 5 major emitting sectors:
- industry
- transport
- heat and buildings
- agriculture, land use and waste
- power
For each sub-sector, the uncertainty and current technology and
market readiness level of technologies that might be part of the
mix in 2050 have been assessed. Some sub-sectors include
‘wildcard' technologies: novel and nascent technologies that are
highly uncertain but potentially transformative.
The analysis drew on more than 20 interviews and a peer review
exercise with around 45 experts from the research community, as
well as input from relevant government departments. Relevant
information from established scenario modelling, policy
documents, and industry sources was also incorporated.
The report also sets out R&D challenges for 3 cross-cutting
technology strands: greenhouse gas removals and carbon capture
and storage, hydrogen and biomass. R&D needs for each sector
are categorised by technology development, delivery and policy
support.
To learn more about the technologies and R&D that will drive
the UK towards its net zero target, read the full Net Zero
Technology Outlook report.
