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UK EVs: No Green Savings, Scientists Claim
11 Feb
Summary
- UK electric vehicles may not reduce carbon emissions due to the current grid.
- Scientists argue efficient hybrids or diesels are more eco-friendly now.
- Grid strengthening and renewable storage are needed before EV adoption.
New research from Queen Mary University suggests that electric vehicles (EVs) in the UK are not delivering the expected carbon savings. Scientists argue that due to the UK's electricity grid still relying significantly on fossil fuels, EVs are primarily powered by burning gas at power stations.
This reliance means that as EV demand increases, it is met by more fossil fuel consumption, negating potential environmental benefits. The study, published in Environmental Research, highlights that the variability of renewable energy sources like wind and solar has been underestimated in government Net Zero plans.
Consequently, researchers propose that for the present time, efficient hybrid or diesel cars may be more environmentally sound choices. They advocate for a shift in priorities, focusing on improving the electricity grid's capacity, strengthening it, and investing in renewable energy storage before further promoting EVs.
Only after the UK's energy supply is substantially decarbonized and renewable energy storage is robust will widespread EV adoption lead to significant carbon reductions. Countries like France, with a high reliance on nuclear power, are closer to realizing such savings.
