The National Grid Electricity System Operator (ESO) has launched its 2024 Future energy scenarios (FES) report, which outlines possible pathways to “achieve a fair, affordable, sustainable and secure clean energy system by 2050”.

Unlike previous years, in which the FES framework would assess a wide range of possible scenarios, the 2024 framework – Future energy scenarios: ESO pathways to net zero – presents a narrower range of pathways. Each pathway identifies strategic choices that can be made on the route to net zero.

In the foreword to the report, Claire Dykta, National Grid ESO director of strategy and policy, said: “Decarbonisation of the energy system is the challenge of our generation. In recognition of the expansive industry transformation required to Great Britain’s energy network planning, this year’s FES framework has evolved from ‘scenarios’ to ‘pathways’ to explore narrower ranges and strategic, credible choices to propel us on the route to decarbonisation.”

The report outlines...