On 5 February, the UK’s Department for Energy Security & Net Zero’s “Mission Control” unit held its first public evidence hearing, examining whether the UK can truly reach its ambitious target of 95% clean power by 2030.

Among the expert witnesses was Professor Marcelle McManus, Professor of Energy and Environmental Engineering at the University of Bath, Research Co-Director of the Industrial Decarbonisation Research and Innovation Centre (IDRIC), and a member of the Institute of Sustainability and Climate Change. She was joined by Adam Berman (Energy UK) and Stuart Dossett (Green Alliance), who also contributed insights on the scale of the challenge and potential solutions.

Prof McManus’s key points focused on the importance of involving local communities in decision-making, ensuring that new energy projects have public backing. She also outlined the critical steps needed to balance technology investments, workforce transition, and demand management to meet the UK’s clean power target.

The 2030 challenge

Prof McManus sees achieving 95% clean power by 2030 as a mammoth but necessary task. While scaling up renewable energy is vital, she stresses that demand management - adjusting how and when energy is used - is just as critical. A regionalised strategy will be key to ensuring clean power reaches industries and communities efficiently.

The UK must maintain momentum in wind and solar while expanding energy storage and grid flexibility to balance fluctuations in supply and demand. On nuclear and carbon capture, Prof McManus acknowledges nuclear’s proven track record but also calls for clear investment pathways to accelerate the adoption of emerging technologies.

Public engagement and workforce transition

For the energy transition to succeed, public consent and participation are essential. Prof McManus points to Denmark, where community-driven energy projects have helped align public behaviour with system needs. She also highlights the opportunity to retrain skilled workers in industrial hubs, turning potential job losses into new opportunities in green industries.

The role of AI and digitalisation

AI could optimise demand management, but Prof McManus warns against excessive energy consumption from AI-driven solutions. Instead, she advocates for targeted applications that genuinely enhance energy efficiency. The need for clearer communication

Prof McManus emphasises that the language of energy transition must be accessible. Instead of top-down policies, she urges co-creation with communities to develop practical, widely understood solutions.

With just five years to hit the 95% clean power target, the UK must act decisively. Success will require strategic investment, public engagement, and a balanced approach to managing both energy supply and demand. The challenge is immense but, as Prof McManus reminds us, failure is not an option.