SSEN Transmission publish “pathway to net zero” analysis

SSEN Transmission has today published an updated North of Scotland Future Energy Scenarios paper outlining potential electricity generation and demand necessary to meet UK and Scottish net zero emissions targets.

Key findings from the paper include:

 - By 2050, the north of Scotland will need 33-35GW of clean, green renewable capacity to support net zero delivery. For context, we currently have just over 6GW of renewable generation connected in the north of Scotland.

 - Based on 2019 figures, electricity demand is expected to increase up to 71% by 2050 as electrification of transport and heat grows to support net zero targets.

 - Around 700,000 electric vehicles will be required on our roads by 2050 to decarbonise our travel; nearly 200-times more than today.

SSEN Transmission, the first networks operator to receive external accreditation from the SBTi for a science-based target in line with a 1.5°C global warming pathway, has now pledged our commitment to the United Nation’s Race to Zero initiative. By joining a global movement of leading companies, we’re aligning our business with the most ambitious aim of the Paris Agreement.

Explaining the findings of the paper, Roddy Wilson, SSEN Transmission’s Network Planning & Investment Manager stated:

“The north of Scotland is already a net exporter of clean, green energy and our analysis shows the potential to grow this export over the coming decades. Indeed this growth is essential if the nation is to meet its legislated net zero targets. It is clear that strategic investment in the north of Scotland transmission infrastructure is unequivocally needed – and needed today.

“While great progress has been made in decarbonising the electricity system, there’s still much to do, and many barriers to overcome, to ensure we reach that important net zero goal at the scale and pace required. The challenge is vast, but the opportunity is greater. We hope that by publishing this paper we can encourage further discussion with our stakeholders and customers as we build our Network for Net Zero.”

To read the paper in full, and share your views please visit: https://www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/information-centre/industry-and-regulation/future-energy-scenarios/.