​The head of the newly formed National Energy System Operator (Neso) has acknowledged the challenges facing the UK's push towards clean energy by 2030 but insists the goal is achievable with significant reforms.

Fintan Slye, who leads Neso, a publicly owned body spun off from the National Grid, is responsible for ensuring the UK's power grid can meet the government's ambitious targets. The Labour government's goal of achieving 95% clean power by 2030 is a cornerstone of its green energy strategy, which was a central pledge during the election.

The shift from fossil fuels to renewables presents major obstacles. While gas currently accounts for almost a third of the UK's electricity supply, it will need to play a far smaller role in the coming years as renewable sources like wind and solar take centre stage. Legacy infrastructure and outdated regulatory processes, designed for large fossil fuel plants, are struggling to keep pace with the influx of smaller, renewable energy projects.

The system, initially built around the country's coalfields, requires significant updates to accommodate the growing number of wind farms, solar panels, and battery storage systems. To make matters worse, the queue for connecting new projects to the grid is clogged with projects that are not ready to proceed, causing delays for those that are.

Neso is working to clear this backlog and has introduced measures to streamline the process. However, larger reforms, including changes to the planning and regulatory systems, are still needed. The goal remains ambitious, but Slye believes that with decisive action, the UK can meet its target of 95% clean power by 2030, with gas-fired plants operating in reserve during periods of high demand.

This transition marks a pivotal moment for the UK as it strives to achieve a cleaner, more resilient energy system.