Rollo Maschietto
Head of Policy (Power & Energy Demand), Renewable Energy Association
The UK’s clean energy transition is accelerating. In 2024, renewables generated over half of the country’s electricity for the first time, with low carbon sources now contributing 65%.
This growth marks a system‑wide transformation, as wind, solar, green gases and battery storage combine to deliver cleaner and more resilient power across the grid.
Coal-free future emerging
Few moments have captured this shift more vividly than the recent demolition of Cottam Power Station’s cooling towers in Nottinghamshire. For over 50 years, they dominated the surrounding skyline, symbolising Britain’s reliance on coal. Their removal was a remarkable engineering feat and a clear signal that we are moving decisively toward a future powered by clean energy. Coal was completely phased out last year.
This transition is fast becoming a British success story: boosting jobs, driving technological innovation and strengthening national energy security. By relying less on imported fossil fuels, Britain shields itself from volatile markets and geopolitical shocks. Achieving ambitious climate targets will require a broad mix of technologies, as well as a smarter system that balances generation, storage and demand flexibility.
Cheap renewable generation must feed
through into lower electricity prices.
Majority support renewables
Crucially, the public is firmly behind this. Polling shows 80% of people support expanding renewable power and sticking with climate goals. Even among Reform voters, the majority back the shift, evidence that clean energy is now mainstream policy, widely understood as a positive for the UK.
Yet, political attacks are mounting. By backing fossil dependency, critics are advocating for higher import costs, fewer domestic jobs and reduced energy independence — the very opposite of what most voters say they want. Why? The numbers speak for themselves: clean energy is not only proven but popular.
Public trust through savings
One challenge remains pivotal: consumer bills. The transition will only endure if families and businesses feel the benefits. Cheap renewable generation must feed through into lower electricity prices, or detractors will seize the chance to argue the transition is costly and unfair. Ensuring households experience these savings is the key to securing lasting public trust in Britain’s clean energy future.
