Rollo Maschietto
Public Affairs Manager, Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology (REA)
The UK Government’s actions will determine whether the country meets its clean energy targets, including a fully decarbonised power system by 2030.
While early steps have been welcome and promising, critical decisions remain on electricity market reform, financial support, planning and grid connections.
Scaling clean energy sources
The Government must prioritise heat and transport decarbonisation while advancing a circular economy. Policies should support bioenergy, green hydrogen and long-duration energy storage alongside renewables. The Renewable Energy Association (REA) welcomes progress but will hold the Government accountable to ensure commitments translate into action.
A fully decarbonised energy system will rely on clean electricity sources such as wind, solar, bioenergy and hydrogen, alongside energy storage and grid flexibility. Heat pumps, district heating and waste heat recovery must be scaled up to address heating demand. Stronger policies, including a ‘Heat’ Contract for Difference scheme and robust building standards, are essential.
Industry plays a key role in deploying
clean technology and investing in innovation.
Clean technology deployment and innovation
Despite progress in decarbonising electricity, major hurdles remain. Grid constraints, with some projects facing decade-long connection delays, pose a significant barrier. The REA is calling for annual parliamentary reporting on grid connection progress by network operators to ensure greater accountability and transparency, as well as advocates for prioritising flexible assets to maximise capacity and addressing planning bottlenecks to accelerate approvals for new projects. Industry plays a key role in deploying clean technology and investing in innovation. Businesses need clear policy direction to unlock capital and drive large-scale renewables.
Government and industry support
The REA works to ensure government policies support industry-led solutions, fostering collaboration between policymakers, businesses and communities. Its advocacy is vital in securing the right regulatory environment. It pushes for support for underutilised technologies like biomethane, champions transitional support for bioenergy and ensures fair policies for energy producers. By representing businesses, it ensures the Government follows through on its promises.
From influencing UK Parliament to engaging global leaders, the association is at the forefront of the energy transition. By shaping policy, championing business needs and promoting practical solutions, it remains a powerful voice in delivering a cleaner, more sustainable future.
