The problem of renewable energy development

Renewable energy is increasingly playing a key role in sustainable economic development in the UK. The UK Government aims to increase renewable energy production to improve energy security and meet other climate targets.

However, a report by the British consultancy Baringa shows that fierce global competition for labor and equipment for the production of wind turbines, power cables and solar panels could hinder UK renewable energy projects.

From a country where coal power accounts for 40% of the total energy supply, it is expected that in 2024, all thermal power plants in the UK will stop operating. The proportion of electricity from renewable energy in the UK increased from 10% (in 2010) to 40% of total electricity production in 2023 and will continue to increase strongly in the coming years.

The wind power sector is receiving much attention as the UK becomes the second-largest offshore wind power installed capacity after China. The UK government aims to triple offshore wind power capacity to 50GW by 2030 and quadruple solar power capacity to 75GW by 2035. The Wind Power Development Plan recommends prioritizing investment in key areas, including the design and manufacture of offshore wind blades and towers, turbine foundations and electrical systems.

However, most of the key equipment is currently manufactured outside the UK. Baringa warned that these targets may not be met due to shortages of products such as turbine foundations, high voltage cables and vessels to install the equipment. Suppliers are also reluctant to build new plants due to uncertainty over turbine sizes and the level of government support for wind power development.

To address this, the UK government has taken steps to boost the supply chain and increase investment support. However, observers say a more comprehensive assessment of renewable energy development is still needed, and relevant industries and the government need to work more closely to address supply chain constraints.

THANH HANG

Source: https://www.sggp.org.vn/bai-toan-phat-trien-nang-luong-tai-tao-post736014.html