18 Oct Generating the Future: UK energy systems fit for 2050

Royal Academy of Engineering (UK) (RAEng)
2010

This report, produced by a working group of Fellows of The Royal Academy of Engineering, considers possible energy scenarios that could meet the 2050 emissions reduction target. Four scenarios are explored. They describe the whole energy system in broad brush strokes and are illustrative rather than prescriptive, identifying the principal components of the system and contributing towards a better systems level understanding of the most salient issues.  The report concludes that turning the theoretical emissions reduction targets into reality will require the biggest peacetime programme of change ever seen in the UK.  While the market will be the vehicle for technological and business solutions, the combined challenges of climate change, security of supply and affordability call for a more directed approach from government.