Jack Presley Abbott
Deputy Director for Strategic Planning and Connections, Ofgem
As the UK moves towards clean power, our energy system is undergoing its biggest transformation. Yet, it’s clouded by myths that clean power isn’t needed and is unaffordable.
In fact, clean power will help keep costs down in the longer term and protect consumers from volatile gas prices like those we are seeing due to the conflict in the Middle East.
Clean power will shrink the grid, and we can decarbonise without major new infrastructure
Decarbonisation doesn’t mean using less electricity. As transport electrifies, heating moves away from gas, and industry reduces fossil fuel use, electricity demand will rise significantly.
At the same time, where energy is generated is changing. Offshore wind in the North Sea, high renewable output in Scotland and growing demand in the Midlands and South all require a grid built for today’s system, not the last century.
There’s no route to clean power without major investment in transmission and distribution. Through RIIO‑3 and the Accelerated Strategic Transmission Investment programme, we’re enabling upgrades to relieve congestion, prevent bottlenecks and get renewable power to consumers.
This isn’t a blank cheque. Networks will be held to account on cost and delivery, but without expansion and modernisation, we cannot build a system fit for the future.
Myth – Grid delays are unavoidable
Another myth is that lengthy grid connection delays are an unavoidable consequence of building more renewables. In truth, delays stem largely from system design.
For too long, viable projects have been stuck behind speculative ones, slowing economic growth and deterring investment. Businesses seeking to connect new sites or expand face similar outdated processes. Connections reform will unlock progress. By prioritising “ready to go” projects, physical delivery replaces paper ambition.
Networks will be held to account on cost and delivery, but without expansion and modernisation, we cannot build a system fit for the future.
Myth – Renewable systems are unstable
A power system dominated by wind and solar requires more flexibility, not less security and long-duration energy storage is crucial.
Long-duration storage captures excess generation during high wind or sun periods, releasing it when conditions or demand change. This reduces reliance on gas-fired generation, cuts exposure to volatile fuel prices and eases network pressure. Existing assets, like pumped hydro storage like Dinorwig in North Wales, are vital.
