Renewable Energy Trends to Look Out for in 2025
Energy trends are constantly evolving due to government policies aiming for net zero emissions, increased consumer awareness of environmental impact, and technological advancements in renewable energy and electric vehicles (EVs). New regulations and innovations are driving the transition to cleaner, more sustainable energy systems, with a growing focus on reducing carbon footprints and integrating renewable sources like solar and wind into national grids.
The integration of renewable energy and technologies is increasingly crucial due to the energy crisis and the need to address climate change. In 2024, notable renewable energy trends included the rapid growth of solar and wind energy, significant advancements in energy storage technologies, and the ongoing expansion of EV infrastructure.
By the end of 2024, the UK is expected to have generated more electricity from low-carbon renewables (37%) than fossil fuels (35%), which will mark the first complete year where renewable energy will surpass fossil fuels in electricity generation, with the remaining 29% of the country’s electricity generation from wind. This highlights the UK’s significant transition to a more sustainable future, reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.
Solar Technology Set to Dominate in 2025
In the new year, solar is set to be at the forefront of the renewable energy landscape, leading the way in the transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy, according to the IEA (International Energy Agency).
Predictions for solar energy trends in the UK highlight its growing importance as a renewable energy source in meeting the nation’s energy needs. The UK government’s Energy Security Strategy acknowledges the critical role of green energy in addressing challenges, with ambitious targets to increase solar capacity. By 2030, the UK aims to produce 40GW of solar power, expanding to 54GW by 2035, playing a vital role in achieving net-zero emissions and enhancing energy independence.
Driven by increased efficiency, affordability and positive environmental impact, there is rising demand for solar panel energy. Technological advancements are set to accelerate the adoption of this ecological form of energy. By generating more power during low sunlight periods, the integration of solar energy with smart homes, combined with its increasing affordability, makes solar panel installation more accessible for both businesses and homeowners.
Additional Trends to Keep an Eye on in the New Year
Additional developments emerging in 2025 include energy storage technologies, which capture and store energy and then supply it back to the grid at a more beneficial time, enabling flexibility. These will be crucial for stabilising renewable energy systems and ensuring a reliable power supply despite intermittent generation.
Transport electrification, the process of replacing fossil fuels with electricity, is also expected to increase. This will result in rising demand for EV infrastructure and charging stations, leading to a stronger need for clean energy sources and increased electricity demand. However, issues such as grid infrastructure constraints, supply chain disruptions, and regulatory challenges could delay progress in these areas.