Energy 2020: Major infrastructure

Stephen Balint, RES. The UK has good natural resources and could even exceed the 2020 target, but revision of the UK’s infrastructure is a prerequisite.

The planning process must be driven by the renewable energy strategy. Many applications have been stuck for 6-7 year. Public buy-in is critical to making these plans work and is key to planning decisions.

The National Grid is not delivering for new renewable generation – there is a long queue for connection.

The price-cap regulation for energy is stifling investment. Ofgem needs to prioritise sustainability. These changes will affect consumers – but in the long term, the switch to renewable energy will reduce consumers’ exposure to volatile energy markets.

The 2020 targets are only a milestone and plans must look beyond this (other speakers echo this).