UK: The UK’s move towards net zero is creating one of the biggest construction programmes in its history, with a $606 B (£455 B) renewable energy project pipeline requiring delivery across the country.
A report by the Energy & Climate Intelligence Unit highlights 262 GW of planned renewable energy capacity, with around two-thirds already active or under construction. A key short-term opportunity is the electricity network, where $75 B (£56 B) of investment is planned over the next five years to connect renewable power to homes and businesses.
This work includes new substations, underground and subsea cables, electrical installations and major groundworks. The growing volume of renewable energy projects is increasing the need for network upgrades and expansion.
The pipeline covers around 130 GW of battery storage, 48 GW of offshore wind, 45 GW of solar power and nearly 23 GW of onshore wind. Offshore wind developments, particularly in Scotland and the North Sea, will require extensive onshore connections and transmission infrastructure.
Long-term projects also include nuclear power, pumped storage hydro schemes, battery energy storage facilities and hydrogen infrastructure. Together, these projects are expected to support industrial decarbonisation and strengthen the UK’s energy system.
The net zero economy contributes $140 B (£105 B) in Gross Value Added and supports more than one million jobs. More than 96 % of net zero businesses are SMEs, creating opportunities for firms of all sizes. With wages averaging 11 % above the national average, demand for specialist green skills is expected to continue growing as projects move forward.
Source: Construction Digital
