UK power storage needs could hit 500GW by 2050
Battery storage key to smooth out demand peaks as electrification at least doubles demand
The UK’s electricity network by 2050 could require 200-500GW of storage capacity as annual demand in a net-zero energy system doubles from current levels to around 600TWh a year, according to independent think tank Energy Systems Catapult. Of the total storage needs, about 50GW would need to be in the form of batteries, with hot water tanks, gas storage, and other technologies providing the remainder, according to Catapult’s chairman Nick Winser, a former director and UK CEO of National Grid. Under this 2050 scenario, battery capacity would be nearly equivalent to the current total installed generation capacity on the UK system of about 80GW. 600 TWh – projected UK electricity demand i
Also in this section
13 December 2024
Prices in world’s largest compliance market have risen this year but remain below those seen in the EU
11 December 2024
Policymakers need to step up with a long-term, global strategy if the energy transition is ever to be a success
11 December 2024
CCUS and other carbon management technologies are gaining traction around the world, but heightened policy risk and other pressures will make 2025 a challenging year in some regions
10 December 2024
Tightened standards have helped improve the outlook for the voluntary carbon market, which is set for a record year and poised for long-term growth
