01 | The Opportunity

A new clear future in an integrated energy system

To secure a sustainable and prosperous future, the UK along with other countries must transition to an energy system with net zero emissions.

We must expand new clean energy sources like wind and solar to replace fossil fuels. Nuclear is also a vital part of the equation if the energy transition is to be achieved securely – shoring up UK energy resilience – and affordably for consumers.

So what do we really need to know?

And how can nuclear provide solutions alongside other complementary low-carbon technologies?

We need to electrify where we can

For many energy applications, expanding our use of electricity will be the cheapest solution, including powering our cars and heating many of our homes.

The UK’s decarbonisation strategy relies on significant electrification of buildings, industry and transport.

UK final energy consumption by fuel type – 2022

Source: DESNZ

But electricity can’t do everything

Currently, electricity makes up less than 20% of the UK's energy consumption. And not everything is suitable for electrification as part of the net zero transition, such as heavy transport (e.g. aviation and shipping), heavy industry and heating many homes and older buildings.

That’s why it’s essential for the UK to secure different ways of delivering non-fossil fuel energy to people and businesses, to reduce harmful emissions whilst retaining our energy security.