The UK is not building enough clean power to stay on track for its legally binding net-zero targets, according to a stark new outlook from the National Energy System Operator (Neso).
Neso’s latest ten-year forecast shows Britain is expected to generate 148 gigawatts of renewable electricity by 2035. While this represents growth, it falls far short of the 170–190GW required to meet the UK’s 2050 net-zero commitment.
The shortfall risks locking in higher emissions. Projections suggest that by 2035, the UK will still be emitting 274 million tonnes of carbon dioxide, which is around one-third more than the pathway consistent with net-zero.
Neso’s Chief Executive, Fintan Slye, said that although the energy transition is under way, “progress isn’t enough.” He stressed the need for stronger action across multiple sectors: accelerating the rollout of renewable generation, improving energy efficiency in homes and businesses, and expanding demand-flexibility measures such as time-of-use tariffs and smart charging.
The report warns that without faster progress, the UK could face higher energy bills, increased reliance on fossil fuels, and missed opportunities for job creation in the clean-tech sector.
The government defended its record, insisting it is already “sprinting to clean power.” It pointed to:
Environmental campaigners, however, argue that delays in scaling up offshore wind, grid infrastructure, and heat pump installations undermine those claims. They are calling for immediate reforms to planning, permitting, and investment rules to prevent the UK from falling further behind competitors in Europe and the US.
The findings are expected to intensify pressure on ministers to accelerate clean-energy policy ahead of the next round of international climate negotiations.
For more information on this subject, see:
