Warning over risks to huge renewable investment pipeline

Europe will need about £1.3 trillion in cumulative investment by 2050 to support the expansion of renewable energy, according to a new report.

Although analysis by Aurora Energy Research said the growth sets the stage for one of Europe’s largest long-term infrastructure investment cycles, it also highlighted risks including negative power prices, grid congestion, and delays to permits.

Solar, onshore wind, and offshore wind capacity have already grown by over 150% in the past decade across the continents key markets including the UK. Capacity is expected to more than triple from 2026 to 2050.

Some £530bn of investment will be required by 2030 alone, the report highlights, with spending set to accelerate in the years following as countries seek to meet climate targets and replace ageing thermal generation.