The UK government has assembled a formidable team of energy experts to spearhead its Clean Power 2030 mission, appointing eight specialists to a new advisory commission. The Clean Power 2030 Advisory Commission will work to accelerate the government’s target of achieving a fully clean power system by the end of the decade. The commission will support Chris Stark, head of Mission Control, in delivering the Clean Power 2030 Action Plan, with a particular focus on flexibility in the energy system.
Merlin Hyman, chair of Regen, brings a wealth of expertise in data, modelling, flexibility, and community energy to the table. Cathy McClay, managing director of the Distribution System Operator at National Grid Distribution, has been appointed as the Flexibility Commissioner. Her role will be crucial in ensuring that the energy system can adapt to the increasing share of renewable energy sources.
Julia Pyke, managing director of the Sizewell C Nuclear Power Plant, offers experience in major infrastructure delivery and community engagement. Alistair Phillips-Davies, who will soon step down as chief executive of SSE, adds valuable insights into company leadership and large-scale project development. Nick Winser, energy commissioner at the National Infrastructure Commission, contributes expertise in transmission and infrastructure, while Juliet Davenport, a commissioner of the Crown Estate, offers knowledge of renewable energy and retail.
Professor Robert Gross, with experience from Ofgem’s Academic Advisory Panel and the National Grid ESO Markets Advisory Council, will provide academic rigor to the commission. Craig Bennet, chief executive of The Wildlife Trusts, completes the group as a climate and nature advocate, ensuring that environmental considerations are at the forefront of the commission’s work.
The appointment of this diverse and experienced group of experts signals the government’s commitment to achieving its ambitious clean power targets. The commission’s work will be critical in shaping the future of the UK’s energy system, ensuring that it is not only clean but also flexible and resilient. The focus on flexibility is particularly noteworthy, as it highlights the need for innovative solutions to manage the intermittency of renewable energy sources.
The commission’s work will also have implications for the broader energy sector. By bringing together experts from different areas of the industry, the commission can help to break down silos and foster collaboration. This could lead to more integrated and efficient energy systems, benefiting both consumers and the environment.
Moreover, the commission’s focus on community engagement and nature could help to address some of the social and environmental challenges associated with the transition to clean power. By ensuring that communities are involved in the planning and delivery of new energy projects, the commission can help to build public support and ensure that the benefits of the transition are shared widely.
In conclusion, the appointment of the Clean Power 2030 Advisory Commission is a significant step forward for the UK’s clean power ambitions. The commission’s work will be critical in shaping the future of the UK’s energy system, and its focus on flexibility, community engagement, and nature could help to address some of the key challenges associated with the transition to clean power. The commission’s work will also have implications for the broader energy sector, fostering collaboration and innovation.