In a constantly evolving world where environmental issues occupy a central place, renewable energies are generating increasing interest. But are they really ready to meet current challenges? Between technological innovations, constant search for efficiency, and sustainable development, it is essential to analyze the relevance of the energy choices available to us.
The Dynamics of Subsidies and Public Policies
The development of renewable energies in the UK has seen ups and downs due to fluctuating subsidy policies. Initially, government subsidies encouraged the installation of solar panels, enabling the UK to become a leader in this technology among Western nations. However, in 2016, these subsidies were reduced, and growth in solar energy stagnated. To achieve net zero emissions goals, it is crucial for the government to renew its commitment to these subsidies.
Global Leaders in Solar Energy
Currently, China dominates the global solar energy market, followed by the United States, Japan, and Germany. The UK ranks tenth with a total capacity of about 16 gigawatts. The construction of new solar farms in eastern England, approved by Ed Miliband, will make a notable contribution. These projects will add 1.35 gigawatts to the national capacity, representing an increase of nearly 10%. This is an encouraging advance, but further efforts will be needed to fully integrate solar energy into the energy mix.
The Balance Between Wind and Solar
In 2022, renewable energies supplied 41.1% of the total electricity in the UK, with 29.4% coming from wind and 4.9% from solar. A large portion of this electricity is generated by wind farms located to the north, creating an imbalance in transmission to the south. Solar energy offers a solution by generating electricity closer to high-demand areas, thus reducing transmission line congestion.
National Infrastructures
To support this momentum towards renewable energies, it is imperative to modernize the national electrical grid. Lifting the moratorium on onshore wind turbines is a step forward, but it must be followed by significant infrastructure improvements. This includes building new pylons, transmission lines, and underwater cables. If these changes are not made quickly, the UK may struggle to meet its electrification goals for transport and vehicles.
Political and Social Challenges
National grid modernization projects may lead to conflicts with landowners and farmers. For example, the Mallard Pass solar farm project faced opposition from 3,000 people, some of whom believe that agricultural land should not be used to produce electricity. Despite these conflicts, the government supports these projects for their ability to provide sustainable clean energy, powering about 92,000 homes over the next 60 years.
Dependency on China
Another significant challenge for renewable energies in the UK is the dependency on China for solar panel manufacturing. China produces about 80% of the world’s solar panels, giving it a considerable weight in the British solar industry. To reduce this dependency, it would be prudent to develop local manufacturing capabilities, which would not only secure the supply but also boost the national economy.
