tech
January 22, 2026
Upgrading the grid: the great energy transition in numbers
As the UK moves towards a carbon-free future, the supply and demand for clean energy is set to soar, with implications for how we power the economy and our homes. Here, we take a look at the figures that reveal the facts …
TL;DR
- UK electricity demand is projected to increase by 50% by 2035 due to the electrification of heat, industry, and transport.
- The UK aims for net-zero emissions by 2050 and 95% carbon-free electricity by 2030, requiring significant grid expansion.
- Over 2,800 miles of offshore and accompanying network power lines need to be built in the next five years.
- Renewables generated 51% of the UK's electricity in 2024, with wind power becoming the largest source.
- The UK has phased out coal power and is a leader in reducing electricity emissions, which have fallen by over two-thirds in a decade.
- Investment of approximately £40 billion annually is needed for clean power by 2030, with grid and network upgrades requiring £60 billion.
- New renewable projects are now cheaper than fossil fuel alternatives.
- The UK is the first major economy to halve emissions and has a rapidly growing electric vehicle market and increasing heat pump adoption.
- Transport and heating account for over 40% of UK emissions, and a significant portion of UK homes are inefficient.
- Upgrading home energy efficiency could save consumers billions on energy bills.
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