The Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers (IGEM) has welcomed a new report from the National Engineering Policy Centre (NEPC), led by the Royal Academy of Engineering, which calls for faster digitalisation of Britain’s electricity system to support the UK’s Clean Power 2030 ambitions.

Published on 19 May 2026, Smart Systems for Clean Power: Why faster, better digitalisation is critical for Clean Power 2030 and beyond warns that the UK risks higher costs, cybersecurity vulnerabilities and fragmented systems if digitalisation is not prioritised.

The report highlights digitalisation as the missing link between renewable energy generation, electricity networks and a more flexible, cost-effective energy system. It argues that stronger coordination, shared standards and dedicated oversight are needed to deliver an energy system capable of managing increasingly complex patterns of supply and demand.

IGEM strongly agrees that digitalisation is essential to delivering Clean Power 2030 and supporting the wider net zero transition, particularly as energy systems become more decentralised, interconnected and data-driven.

The conversation must extend beyond electricity alone.

The value of biomethane transported through Britain’s gas networks to deliver renewable, dispatchable power is becoming increasingly clear.

A digitally enabled whole-system approach will be essential. Coordinated energy networks, supported by high-quality data and interoperable systems, can help optimise the use of renewable gas alongside electricity infrastructure while supporting security of supply and consumer affordability.

IGEM supports the report’s recognition that successful energy transformation depends on coordinated governance, technical expertise and integrated system planning.

Delivering clean power and net zero will require collaboration across the whole energy system, ensuring that digitalisation supports not only electricity networks, but also the evolving role of renewable gas and flexible demand in Britain’s energy future.

Read more: Government urged to move faster on digitalisation of electricity system or face serious risks