United Kingdom

The innovative ambition and potential of the UK is reflected in the Energy White Paper of 2020 and the Prime Minister’s Ten Point Plan for a Green Industrial Revolution (offshore wind, hydrogen, nuclear, carbon capture, alongside energy efficiency). By 2030, the UK is expected to have a power mix with very high shares of wind and solar. The UK is scaling up flexible electricity markets and technologies. In the short-term, the contribution of natural gas is likely to increase, notably during winter periods, as existing coal and nuclear power capacity is retired and new nuclear plants face a contested outlook.

The UK has been able to stabilise oil and gas production from the North Sea. Given its long term decline, the UK will increasingly rely on imports and needs to support the transition for affected workers and communities.

The 2018 IEA in-depth review provides recommendations to help the country guide the transition of UK’s energy sector.

Last updated Dec 16, 2021