- Government to unleash the North Sea’s clean energy future
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-to-unleash-the-north-seas-clean-energy-future
The UK Government is currently consulting industry on plans to make the North Sea a world-leader in hydrogen, carbon capture and storage (CCS), and offshore wind. This consultation gives certainty on the lifespan of oil and gas by committing to maintaining existing fields for their lifetime, whilst implementing the commitment to not issue any licenses to explore new fields.
- Europe’s Emissions Trading System expected to have the highest carbon price globally
The EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) II is the market designed to cut emissions across road transport, buildings and small industries and is set to launch in 2027. Forecasts are that carbon processes could be as high as €149 per ton by 2030. This is predicted to lead to significant emissions abatement, with consumers predicted to bear the brunt of the carbon price. This increase in carbon price is predicted to generate €705 billion in revenue between 2027 and 2035, and result in a reduction of 232 million metric tonnes of CO2 equivalent (MtCO2e).
- China announces plans for major renewable projects
China announced on the 5th March that it would develop a package of large-scale renewable projects to tackle climate change. This includes offshore wind farms and accelerated construction of ‘energy bases’ in the vast deserts of China. This also includes a controversial hydropower facility in the Yarlung Tsangpo River, Tibet. Coal will remain a key fuel, with increased coal production in the short term whilst low carbon technologys are tested at coal-fired power plants.
- Scottish energy security is being restricted by ‘needless’ planning delays
The managing director of Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks, Rob McDonald, stated that the Scottish Government is writing guidance for the introduction of a 52-week determination period for critical low-carbon infrastructure to reduce lengthy delays to powerline projects in Scotland. With Scotland aiming to expand its renewable energy capacity and strengthen its grid to meet net-zero targets, McDonald stresses that an efficient and predictable planning system is essential. McDonald argues that this change should end the long delays that have historically slowed down the approval of vital energy infrastructure.
- The UK and Ireland are to boost offshore wind ties
https://renews.biz/99221/uk-ireland-to-boost-offshore-wind-ties/
The UK are Ireland are planning to work more closely to enable subsea infrastructure to maximise the potential of offshore wind in the Irish and Celtic Seas. This involves laying the groundwork for commercial developers to increase offshore energy through reduced planning barriers and length consent processes.
- Climate insights drive a more reliable energy transition
A new report from the World Meteorological Organisation highlights the critical role of climate data in renewable energy planning. Climate variability affects wind, solar, and hydropower generation, emphasizing the need for diversified energy solutions and seasonal forecasts. In 2023, solar and wind energy output increased in key regions, supporting global targets to triple renewable capacity by 2030. The report urges better data sharing, regional cooperation, and market flexibility to enhance energy resilience and sustainability.