Net Zero

Net zero is a target to reduce the amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the Earth's atmosphere by 2050.

Fossil fuels - including natural gas, oil and coal - are burned to provide most of the energy used in heating, transport and manufacturing today. These energy sources are non-renewable; once used, they can't be replaced.

Widespread burning of fossil fuels also releases GHGs such as carbon dioxide and methane. This contributes to environmental damage, global warming and climate change.

In 2015, many nations announced support for a strategy to cut GHG emissions. The Paris Agreement came into force a year later. Countries submit national climate action plans to limit global warming and support the collective goals.

Net zero in the UK

The UK Government's Net Zero Strategy proposed that by 2035, the UK will be powered entirely by clean electricity, subject to security of supply.

Renewable energy is key to achieving this goal. There will also be increasing reliance on new and emerging technologies - including carbon capture, battery storage, hydrogen and biofuels.

The 2022 British Energy Security Strategy set out plans for a five-fold increase in solar power generation. This update, along with proposals to decarbonise the transport and heat sectors, will double demand for electricity. The UK needs flexible, resilient power now, more than ever.

Net zero and electricity generation

Low-carbon electricity generators like Infinis will support the UK's journey to net zero in several ways.

• Methane capture - methane emissions cause 25% of global warming today, with a major surge over the past 15 years. When we capture methane from landfill and disused mines, the energy is converted to electricity. This helps to reduce GHG emissions and creates renewable energy for export to the grid
• Power response - in periods of high demand and/or low generation, power response services can provide urgent support. This is vital to maintain stable supply to UK homes and businesses, as it supports intermittent renewable generation
• Solar power - the government views solar power as key to achieving UK energy independence, with plans to deliver up to 70GW by 2035. Infinis is ideally placed to increase capacity - with the ability to deliver solar on even highly challenging brownfield and landfill sites
• Green hydrogen - we're working with energy suppliers and large corporates on potential H2 projects, to help build UK capability and displace natural gas.