Energy networks vision summit

Whole system approach

The need to adopt a whole system approach across heat, transport and electricity was a common theme raised in all of the workshops. This recognised the fact that net zero could only be achieved if the different energy players, including Ofgem and government at all levels, worked in collaboration. The Scottish Government was seen as having a key role to play in bringing the energy sector together and enabling closer collaboration between the gas and electricity networks. Electricity and gas network plans should be coordinated to help enable major increases in renewable energy capacity and generation, ensuring that Scotland meets the target of 50% of all energy from renewables by 2030.

Electricity and gas networks should also support efficient and effective decarbonisation across the whole energy system, while supporting broad societal and economic ambitions. Long-term investments should take into account local and regional aspirations for the whole energy system – including transport, heat, and energy efficiency – and support to the local economy. A whole system approach was thought likely to bring significant economic benefits for Scotland – for example, through the creation of hubs for certain industries in locations where renewable sources of generation such as wind, wave and solar are coupled with smaller gas grids. Many felt that Scotland, with its vast renewables potential, is well placed to benefit from a whole system approach.