In this blog, Andy Kirwan, Ener-Vate’s Head of Commercial Delivery (North), reflects on this progress, drawing parallels with past energy transitions and highlighting the importance of heat networks, electrification, and upskilling for a successful shift to low-carbon solutions.

The UK's carbon emissions dropped by 3.6% in 2024, marking the lowest level since the 19th century. This reduction was primarily driven by the historic decline in coal usage - now at its lowest point since 1666. Reflecting on this milestone, I see clear parallels with the energy transition of the last century from coal to oil and gas, a shift that fundamentally reshaped our infrastructure, economy, and society.

Today, we're experiencing a comparable shift - from oil and gas towards renewable and low-carbon solutions. Technologies such as heat networks and electrification are no longer just alternatives but essential components to futureproof and secure our energy infrastructure and economy.

As commercial consultants at Ener-Vate, alongside other industry leaders and policymakers, our responsibilities reflect those of the pioneers in past energy transitions. We must proactively and carefully navigate this transition, overcoming barriers with robust commercial strategies (critical!), resilient infrastructure development, and targeted stakeholder/policy engagement. Echoing a previous thought piece by our Development Director Steve Hunt, widespread public awareness and adoption of heat networks are crucial for a successful transition.

The real question isn't if the transition will happen - climate change and a sensible net-zero approach transcends politics (in my opinion) - but rather how swiftly and effectively we can implement the necessary actions.

Crucially, we must also focus on how we upskill and build resource capacity within the renewable and low-carbon sectors, leveraging expertise from the oil and gas industry. Recent reports highlight that over 90% of UK oil and gas workers possess transferable skills vital for renewable sectors, yet only 12% currently work in renewables... Successfully redeploying and enhancing these skills can significantly bridge this gap, and provide a substantial national and local economic boost through job creation, increased investment, and strengthened global competitiveness in the rapidly expanding renewable energy sector. Department for Energy Security and Net Zero

We have transitioned from old technologies, outdated structures, and economic markets many, many times throughout history... why can't we do it again?