A clean energy future and the promise of opportunities for electrical contractors

[edit] Clean Power 2030

The evolving landscape under the Government’s Clean Power 2030 Action Plan (May 2025) promises a golden era for ECA (Electrical Contractors' Association) Members. Clean Power 2030 is transforming the construction landscape. The significant investment in renewable generation and decarbonisation presents a wealth of opportunities in electrification infrastructure, grid integration, smart systems, and energy management.

Gary Parker, Head of Technical at ECA, said:

“With large-scale, long-term projects, coming on stream offering financial and reputational rewards, this is a very exciting time to work in our industry. Expertise in power systems, controls, energy storage, and grid connectivity will be pivotal to renewables, nuclear, storage, and infrastructure. This is a massive opportunity.”

The range of projects green-lit in the Clean Power 2030 Plan offer opportunities to diversify business and spread risk.

[edit] Nuclear Mega project – Sizewell C

The £38 billion Sizewell C nuclear power station in Suffolk was granted final approval in July 2025. It is the largest infrastructure project in the region’s history.

The electrotechnical scope includes: installation of high and low-voltage distribution systems, control and instrumentation (C&I), power monitoring, and safety circuits.

With all major projects, the electrification of associated infrastructure such as the Four Villages Bypass and a 2,400-bed worker campus, also offers opportunities. Installs of EV charging infrastructure, streetlighting, and integrated building systems will be in demand.

[edit] Offshore Wind

Together the projects from the current leasing round are expected to power around 6.5 million homes. Planning decisions are expected between August and late 2025.

Projects in the seas around England and Wales include Morgan Offshore Wind Farm (£2 billion, 1.5 GW capacity) and Morecambe Offshore Wind Farm (£1.5 billion, 480 MW). Power cabling (AC/DC), electrical substations, transformer systems, inter-array cabling, and control systems. Breakers, switchgear, SCADA, and safety interlocks will all be high-demand.

[edit] Onshore Renewables and Energy Storage

Esgair Galed Energy Park in Wales with 26 turbines will power 179,000 homes. While in England, Tillbridge Solar Farm (Lincolnshire), £250 million, 45–47 GW solar target-aligned project has been given Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIP) status, with work expected to begin in 2026.

All project types will require expanded grid access, advanced substation work, HV cabling, and compliance with evolving electricity regulations.

There will be an increasing focus on demand-side response, real-time monitoring, and smart grid capabilities offering key areas for specialist contractors.

With projects spanning nuclear, offshore, onshore wind, solar, and storage, the potential for a golden era for ECA firms is positive.

This article appears on the ECA news and blogsite as "UK’s Clean Energy Future promises golden opportunities for ECA Members" date 18 August 2025.

--ECA

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