Having served as the CEO of EirGrid, the Irish Transmission System Operator, I understand that the energy transition cannot happen in isolation. Collaboration with our European partners is essential as we plan and develop new energy infrastructure.
We are committed to working closely with neighboring countries across the Irish, Celtic and North seas, accelerating toward climate targets and minimizing costs for consumers. This spirit of cooperation is vital for both the EU and the UK to navigate the energy transition successfully.
In this spirit, I wholeheartedly welcome the UK’s engagement with the North Sea Energy Cooperation (NSEC) forum. NESO eagerly anticipates supporting the UK’s government at the upcoming NSEC forum in Copenhagen as we explore how the North Sea, Europe’s greatest energy resource, can be best used for everyone’s benefit.
As the first CEO of this groundbreaking organization, I believe that NESO’s creation is a pivotal move at a critical time. While the progress made so far to decarbonize the British electricity grid is commendable, it alone cannot fulfil Great Britain’s ambition for a clean power system by 2030 and a net-zero economy by 2050.
Since the world’s first coal-fired power station was turned on in London in 1882, Great Britain has relied on coal to generate electricity. Yesterday, in a small village nestled in the heart of England, that 142-year chapter came to a close as Ratcliffe-on-Soar, Great Britain’s last coal-fired power station, was powered down for good.
Even just a decade ago, coal accounted for over 30% of Great Britain’s electricity generation. Today, renewable sources like wind and solar power have taken its place. Great Britain has emerged as a global leader in decarbonization, steadfast in its commitment to a sustainable future and the journey toward net-zero emissions. As a newly formed independent organization, we now look forward to working with our European partners to ensure we can decarbonize our collective economies and meet our ambitious climate targets.
Beyond our commitment to climate goals, NESO plays a crucial role in ensuring energy security. By collaborating with European partners, we can build a secure and resilient European energy system that leverages the vast natural resources across the continent.