The UK must dramatically expand its energy storage capacity to meet its clean energy targets by 2030, as currently, over 10% of wind-generated electricity is wasted due to grid constraints.
A recent report from Drax and Imperial College London highlights a milestone: in 2023, wind power became the UK’s largest source of electricity (31%), overtaking fossil fuels for the first time in 140 years. However, despite this progress, 8.3 TWh of wind energy—enough to power two million homes—was lost due to grid congestion, costing consumers nearly £400 million.
The Need for Energy Storage Solutions
To fully harness the potential of wind power, the UK needs urgent investment in long-duration energy storage (LDES) and battery energy storage systems (BESS). Strengthening grid infrastructure will allow excess wind energy to be stored and deployed when needed, reducing reliance on gas during low-wind periods and increasing energy security.
The Growing Risk of Wasted Energy
Without decisive action, the risk of wasting clean energy continues to grow. The curtailment rate—where turbines are shut down due to lack of transmission capacity—doubled from 5.5% to over 10% in just one year. This is particularly problematic in Scotland, where wind farms frequently generate more energy than the grid can transport to demand centres in England.
Challenges in the Clean Energy Transition
The rapid expansion of wind power is a positive step in our clean energy transition, but it brings new challenges. Periods of low wind—such as those seen in winter 2024/25—exposed our dependence on costly imported energy and drained gas storage to critical levels.
The Role of Policy and Investment
The UK government has ambitious targets for energy storage and grid upgrades, but deployment must accelerate to keep up with the rapid growth of renewable generation. Policy incentives, streamlined planning processes, and increased investment in storage technologies are essential to ensuring Britain capitalises on its renewable energy potential.
How GLEG Can Help…
At GLEG, we help businesses navigate the evolving energy landscape, ensuring they stay ahead of the curve with expert advice on sustainable solutions. Want to discuss how energy storage solutions could benefit your organisation? Get in touch with us at hello@gleg.co.uk.
