Managing the UK's transition to net-zero

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Vivid advises that a net zero 2050 is feasible. Urgent actions: rapid electrification of the economy and large scale trials of new low carbon options

Across our work, Vivid has demonstrated that decarbonisation is not constrained by fundamental techno-economic barriers in the UK. Our analysis highlights opportunities for the UK government to increase its climate ambition. In a report for WWF, Vivid constructed feasible pathways to achieve net-zero for the UK . We also showed Scotland showing could reach net zero emissions as early as 2045 under a credible decarbonisation pathway. The analysis combines latest evidence on emission reduction pathways and greenhouse gas removal (GGR). It is stress tested through engagement with experts across key emitting sectors.

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Rapid electrification is feasible at very low cost

Vivid was asked by the Committee on Climate Change to assess the ability of the electricity system to cope with rapid deployment of electric heat and transport technologies to meet a net zero emissions target. We carried out detailed electricity system modelling using two sophisticated modelling tools: Imperial College’s Whole-electricity System Investment Model (WeSIM) and the Load Related Expenditure (LRE) model. The study found that achieving accelerated electrification is feasible with immediate and sustained effort. The study, soon to be published, also identified the policy reforms needed to drive the necessary change.

How can the UK incentivise Greenhouse Gas Removal technologies?

Vivid studied policies to catalyse the large scale deployment of greenhouse gas removal (GGR), up to a scale compatible with net zero emissions. The study presents four indicative policy pathways, with GGR obligations emerging as a particularly strong candidate to drive deployment. The policy analysis was anchored in an assessment of market barriers to GGR. Potential policy options were assessed through workshops and discussions with policy teams across the Government. A report will be published shortly.

The innovation we need for net zero emissions is as much about fast adoption as it is about rapid invention

In partnership with UKERC, Vivid Economics identified innovation policies required to accelerate the transition towards a net zero target for Aldersgate Group. The study identified six policy lessons on how the government can accelerate low carbon innovation, including the creation of new markets and coordination of early stage deployment. The analysis was driven by international case studies, covering innovations in the energy, manufacturing and banking sectors.

Efficient freight systems are vital to net zero

Vivid assessed the performance of the UK freight system (in terms of its cost, speed and reliability, resilience and environmental impact) for the National Infrastructure Commission. It found that near- or full-decarbonisation of freight transport is likely to be needed to meet the UK’s climate targets. As a result, a shift to alternative fuelled vehicles is urgent. Read about the prospects for deployment of alternative fuelled freight vehicles in our report.

Vivid has also analysed pathways to net-zero outside of the UK, in countries such as New-Zealand

Vivid team members also lead the public debate on managing the net-zero transition

Alex Kazaglis — Principal — spoke to the media on the feasibility of net-zero, alongside Lord Adair and the ECIU. He highlighted that to meet ambitious climate targets “we need movement on some issues that are outside the government’s usual scope…”. At a panel discussion for the Aldersgate Group, Alex highlighted how the government could help to accelerate the innovation needed for net-zero.

Thomas Kansy — Principal — presented on the challenge of safeguarding competitiveness under rising carbon prices for the European Climate Summit. He stressed the importance of an EU ETS, Carbon Market strategy and appropriate hedging.

Paul Sammon — Engagement Manager — led a seminar on “Safeguarding industrial competitiveness on the path to net-zero” at North American Carbon World. Paul provided lessons for policymakers and industries on the need for greater innovation and the benefits of independent facilitation.

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