Electrification

The Energy White Paper, Powering our Net Zero Future (CP 337), published in December 2020 by HM Government, defines electrification as: ‘Switching from using fuels such as gas or petroleum, to using electricity. For example, switching from a petrol car to an electric car.’

On 29 April 2025 the Electrical Contractors Association published its "Blueprint for Electrification: Delivering the UK’s Transition to Clean Power". Steve Bratt the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Electrical Contractors’ Association highlights that despite 'ambition, delivery is falling behind', and that the 'transition to electrification is complex'. The transition and complexity is 'shaped by a mosaic of interconnected challenges – a shortage of competent, qualified electricians risks slowing deployment; an unstable business environment impacts supply chains; lack of consumer confidence and planning constraints hinder investment - each challenge reinforcing the next.'

The Blueprint rightly notes that much of the ambition for electrification will be in effect delivered by electrical engineers and electricians and as such aims to present "a comprehensive, practical roadmap for electrification through the lens of those who will deliver much of it: electricians." "From upgrading the grid and expanding renewable generation to rolling out EV charge points and smart energy systems, electricians are at the heart of delivery. If we want electrification to succeed, we must involve the electrotechnical industry and confront the practical barriers slowing progress and take decisive action to remove them."

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