The United Kingdom has set its sights on a greener, more sustainable future, and the renewable energy sector is at the forefront of this transformation. With ambitious targets and a commitment to reducing carbon emissions, the UK is poised to lead the way in renewable energy innovation.

In this blog, we will explore some of the most promising future trends in renewable energy in the UK, paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable energy landscape.

So, what action is the UK taking?

Offshore Wind Revolution

Having already established itself as a global leader in offshore wind energy, the UK is set to accelerate their usage dramatically in the coming years. Currently, the UK has around 10 gigawatts (GW) in operation off its coasts, however, the government has pledged to reach 40GW of offshore wind capacity by 2030. This ambitious promise is indicative of the nation's commitment to harnessing the power of the wind, with new and more efficient wind turbines on the horizon.

Even so, as we shift towards greener energy to heat our homes, charge our electric vehicles and power our energy focused industries, the Climate Change Committee has suggested that the UK will need 140GW to meet net zero by 2050.

Hydrogen as a Green Fuel

Green hydrogen, produced using renewable energy, is gaining traction in the UK. Unlike conventional hydrogen production methods that rely on fossil fuels, green hydrogen is produced by splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen by using electricity generated from renewable sources such as wind, solar, or hydropower. This process does not emit carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases, making it a clean and sustainable energy carrier.

With the potential to decarbonize various sectors, including transportation and heating, investments in hydrogen production and infrastructure are expected to increase, positioning hydrogen as a key player in the clean energy transition.

Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU)

In the quest to reduce emissions, CCU technologies are being explored. These technologies capture carbon dioxide emissions from industrial processes and convert them into useful products, such as synthetic fuels and building materials.

What is particularly attractive about CCU, is that it has the potential to play a crucial role in achieving net-zero emissions. It can remove CO2 from the atmosphere by combining it with direct air capture or bioenergy to balance unavoidable emissions. Even more so, it can be retrofitted to existing power plants which could otherwise continue to emit 8 billion tonnes of CO2 by 2050.

Nuclear

To reduce the UK’s reliance on oil and gas, the government plans to build a staggering 8 new nuclear reactors. By announcing a new body called Great British Nuclear, the government aims to bolster the UK's nuclear capacity, with the hope that by 2050 up to 24 GW of electricity will come from that source.

The future

2022 saw a record amount of energy generated from renewable resources in the UK. Researchers found that 40% of the UK’s electricity was made up of hydropower, solar, wind and biomass. However, experts also suggest that more clean energy is needed if the UK is set on becoming a renewable energy leader in Europe.

As recruitment specialists in the Process and Energy, Water and Environmental markets, Blueprint understands the pivotal role these sectors play in shaping a sustainable future. This is why we are committed to connecting exceptional talent with opportunities within the renewable sectors, ensuring that the government’s projects can be carried out successfully.

If you want to learn more about our current vacancies within these markets, please visit our Sectors page. Alternatively, feel free to contact us on 02329 603030. 00