A new report from the energy industry highlights ways in which the UK could revive the clean energy revolution. Good Energy’s Head of Policy, Kit Dixon, believes there are affordable ways for a new government to transform the country’s energy system and he even sees some climate-positive policies outlined in the leading parties’ manifestos. While energy policy from larger parties refers mostly to the infrastructure the Good Energy believes local and personal change are key to the future. Dixon’s recommendations include buying energy from domestic rooftop solar or other decentralised energy sources to be provided by a diverse host of producers.
The UK also can use housing development to its advantage. If the new government mandated solar panels on new construction following Labour’s pledge to build 1.5 million homes over the next five years, the resulting capacity would provide about 5% of the country’s electricity needs. There are other switches that Good Energy has identified that could help an average person save money, such as the levies that include social initiatives such as the warm home discount or renewable obligation on electricity bills. Currently, fuel-poor families in poorly insulated homes contribute more to these levies than wealthier families, which rings false amid the current transition to reduce carbon emissions.
Dixon also suggests energy providers should be revolutionising their practices. Rather than using what’s already there, the energy industry should find innovative ways to contract new renewable generators, producing cleaner energy and allowing for a much more resilient energy system in the future. It is also imperative to consider the advantages of using smart meters. Not only would this allow energy suppliers and customers to work together to conserve energy, but smart meters provide the level of data needed to make cost reductions tangible, allowing consumers to use electricity during off-peak hours. This data promotes a more flexible market, incorporating the generation of renewable energy to the grid. By adopting these policy changes, the UK could become a green energy superpower.
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