Labour Ministers Pressured to Double Grid Investment as Energy Demand Soars

The National Infrastructure Commission (NIC) has issued a stark warning: without a dramatic increase in grid investment, the UK risks falling behind in its clean energy transition. With electricity demand projected to double by 2050, ministers must act swiftly to fortify the grid and ensure the seamless integration of renewable power sources.

As more households adopt electric vehicles (EVs) and heat pumps, the pressure on the grid is mounting. Yet, many consumers remain hesitant to switch—concerned about upfront costs and whether the energy supply can keep pace with rising demand.

According to the NIC’s latest report, the government must ramp up grid infrastructure investment, which could add £5-£25 to annual electricity bills by the mid-2030s. However, the report emphasises that with the proper policy backing for low-carbon energy and heating solutions, household energy costs could still drop below today’s levels in the long run.

The message is clear: without decisive intervention, the UK’s energy system risks literally and figuratively gridlock. As renewables take centre stage, the ability to connect, store, and distribute clean power efficiently will define the success of the nation’s net-zero ambitions. Ministers now face a critical decision: double down on infrastructure investment or risk a future of energy shortfalls, soaring bills, and stagnating decarbonisation efforts.

Sir John Armitt, Chair of the National Infrastructure Commission, said: ‘The UK is heading in the right direction on decarbonising power, but we can’t be complacent.

‘We must learn the lessons from playing catch-up on transmission grid expansion and get ahead of the curve on investing in our local networks so people can enjoy the benefits of electric vehicles and heat pumps safe in the knowledge the network will back them up and businesses can connect where and when they need to.’

Sam Richards, CEO of pro-growth campaign group Britain Remade, said: ‘For too long, slow grid connections and bureaucratic red-tape have held back investment, innovation, and job creation.

‘Ofgem must embrace a new, pro-growth approach that encourages investment, removes barriers to expansion, and delivers a network capable of supporting the new nuclear power stations and renewables that are needed to deliver the government’s mission of a clean grid by 2030.