EDF is investing in clean energy for a carbon-neutral UK

EDF, the UK’s biggest producer of carbon-free electricity, has reported progress on its £50 billion plan in its annual update. The goal is to contribute to the country’s infrastructure to achieve net emissions of carbon dioxide by 2050.

This year, EDF has reduced its carbon dioxide emissions to zero grams per megawatt hour and reached an important milestone, meaning that all electricity generation is now carbon dioxide-free.

Investment in nuclear energy

The report highlights progress in helping customers reduce their carbon emissions by 5 million tonnes per year by installing smart meters, electric car charging stations, heat pumps and solar panels.

EDF will continue to invest in renewable energy and nuclear power. Among others, three new solar power plants with a capacity of 50 MW each are planned at Porth Ven, Sutton Bridge and Burwell. The Neart na Gaoithe offshore wind farm will power 375,000 Scottish homes by 2024.

Investment is also being made in nuclear power with the construction of a new 3.2 GW reactor at Hinkley Point C in Somerset, and similar plans for Sizewell C in Suffolk. Extending the operating hours of Heysham 1 and Hartlepool nuclear power stations to 2026 reinforces the country’s energy security and carbon neutrality targets.

Significant reduction in carbon dioxide emissions

EDF has reduced its total carbon dioxide emissions by 17 percent compared to the previous year, and 99 percent of total emissions come from indirect sources in the value chain.

EDF’s CEO, Simone Rossi, emphasizes the importance of taking rapid and large-scale steps towards a carbon-neutral society, where a fair transition not only creates economic opportunities, but also protects consumers from volatile energy prices.

Source: EDF