Britain to rely on gas plants as backup for wind energy by 2030, report says
Britain will need to keep its gas-fired power plants as a backup for wind energy in 2030, according to a report from the National Energy System Operator. While gas's share of power will drop to under 5%, the same capacity will be required for days without wind. The report highlights the need for urgent investment of over £40 billion annually to expand wind, solar, and grid infrastructure. It also notes that the costs of running the system should not increase, but does not clarify if household bills will decrease. The government must decide how to fund this energy transition and address community concerns about new infrastructure. The report emphasizes the importance of increasing demand flexibility among consumers to optimize energy use.