Integratingprojects

Phase 4 of UKERC included a number of integrated research projects, aiming to cut across project areas in an interdisciplinerary manner. Integrated research is critical, as it brings together different perspectives, disciplines, and methodologies to address complex, real-world problems that can’t be solved by any single field of study.

An initial integrating project, on energy and economic growth, was instigated at the beginning of the phase, involving UCL and Leeds, which reviewed how the energy system is represented in economic models to identify where improvements need to be made in model design, structure and data, as well as exploring the macroeconomic implications of the transition to net zero, including a specific focus on one or more key sectors of the economy, such as energy intensive industries and the automotive industry.

This was followed by two further projects which involve all of UKERC’s themes and research activities.

First, a series of briefing papers that examine the interrelationship between energy security and decarbonisation. The briefings took an international view on pressing energy security matters, to explore the challenges and opportunities associated with energy security and affordability, and directly inform relevant policy debates. The first briefing links UKERC research across phases 3 and 4 on UK gas security to current events to produce a UK Gas Security Strategy.

The second area of focus is on the requirements for transforming the UK’s energy infrastructure over the next decade. It is predicated on the fact that many of the infrastructures that deliver energy services to human societies will need to change if we are to get even close to net zero. Infrastructural change is needed to deliver carbon free energy, reduce the amount of energy we need, and to respond to a changing climate. It is also essential if we are to reduce our reliance on oil and gas, and to achieve greater energy resilience, security and affordability.