The future of the UK’s energy landscape

The UK's energy landscape is undergoing a major transformation as the country moves toward a more sustainable and resilient energy system. 

With a strong commitment to reducing carbon emissions, the UK has set ambitious targets to increase the share of renewable energy in its energy mix. Wind, solar, and other renewable sources are playing a crucial role in this shift, helping the UK work towards its goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050. 

At AtkinsRéalis, engineering net zero is at the heart of our mission to build a sustainable future. We are at the forefront of driving clean energy innovation, supporting the transition to a low-carbon future through cutting-edge solutions and expertise. 

How much of UK energy is renewable? 

As of January 2025, renewable energy sources accounted for approximately 42.3% of the UK's total energy mix. Of this, 29.5% comes from wind energy, 6.8% from biomass, 4.7% from solar power, and 1.3% from hydroelectric sources.

In fact, over the past decade, the UK's renewable energy share has experienced significant growth. In 2013, renewables accounted for 14.6% of electricity generation. By 2020, this figure had risen to 43%, marking the first year in the UK's history that electricity predominantly came from renewable sources. 

The role of innovation in achieving clean energy goals

Innovation plays a critical role in achieving the UK's clean energy goals by driving new solutions that make renewable energy more efficient, accessible, and scalable. 

Here are a few examples of innovation in clean energy: 

• Energy storage solutions - to make renewable energy more reliable, innovations in energy storage are crucial. Battery storage systems allow excess energy generated by solar or wind power to be stored and used when demand is high or renewable generation is low. 
• Smart grids and digitalization - smart grid technology uses sensors and digital tools to monitor and manage energy flows more efficiently. This enables better integration of renewable sources, enhances demand response, and reduces energy waste. The use of artificial intelligence and data analytics in smart grids helps optimize energy distribution and consumption, improving overall energy efficiency. 
• Carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) - CCUS technology captures carbon dioxide emissions from industrial processes or power plants and stores them underground or uses them for products like concrete. This technology is essential for decarbonizing industries that are difficult to electrify. 

Shape the future of clean energy with AtkinsRéalis 

At AtkinsRéalis, we are committed to being at the forefront of this innovation. Our expertise in engineering, technology, and sustainable design allows us to help clients navigate the complexities of the energy transition. 

By working on cutting-edge projects, from designing offshore wind farms to developing smart energy systems, we are contributing to the global effort to achieve clean energy goals and support a sustainable future. 

Explore clean energy jobs in the UK with AtkinsRéalis 

At AtkinsRéalis we're looking for bright thinkers, excited by sustainability and technology. 

You'll be working with some of the world's most genius teams on hydro, renewables, energy storage, transmission and distribution projects – across an asset's entire lifecycle. 

As digital technologies become increasingly integrated into our work, we're routinely building and using intelligent networks and cyber security systems to make plants more secure and run more efficiently. 

Apply to our clean energy jobs today.