Rapid Investment Needed To Meet Clean Energy Targets

Scottish energy giant SSE is calling for a significant increase in investment from both public and private sectors to achieve the UK's ambitious 2030 clean energy targets.

In an article first published in the Times and Sunday Times, SSE outlined how the recent energy crisis caused by reliance on imported fuels highlighted the need for a swift transition to a homegrown, renewable energy system. The energy provider said that it has committed to investing at least £20 billion in energy infrastructure this decade, including the recently completed Viking Wind Farm in Shetland.

SSE continued: "While the award of 4.9GW of offshore wind contracts in the UK's recent renewables auction is a positive step, it falls short of what's needed to decarbonise electricity generation by 2035. Reaching this target will require an estimated £280-£400 billion investment in clean generation and significant upgrades to the electricity grid.


"SSE acknowledges the need for flexible backup power solutions like hydrogen, hydroelectric storage, and natural gas plants with carbon capture and storage (CCS) to complement renewable energy sources which are intermittent by nature."

SSE went on to highlight the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors, with "the government taking a leading role", to provide certainty for investors through a national strategic plan and support mechanisms like Contracts for Difference.

SSE added: "A clear national plan would outline the technologies to be used, their locations, and ensure healthy returns on investment. This would not only attract capital but also encourage supply chain development, as exemplified by Sumitomo's subsea cable factory being built in Scotland.

"Planning and consenting processes for renewable energy projects are another hurdle. The current average 12-year lead time for offshore wind farms is incompatible with the government's target to quadruple installed capacity by 2030. Streamlining the consenting process with fixed timetables could significantly expedite project delivery."

The company concluded: "SSE is optimistic about the National Energy Systems Operator's Clean Power Plan for 2030, hoping it will embody pro-investment policies and a collaborative approach. They believe a shift to clean energy would benefit the UK economy by creating jobs, boosting domestic industries, and establishing the country as a leader in clean energy technology."