Taking Control of Your Energy Bills: Why More Homeowners Are Turning to Renewables

For many households across the UK, energy bills have become one of the most unpredictable parts of monthly spending. Just when it feels like costs are stabilising, another shift in the market pushes them back up again.

The reality is simple: when your home relies entirely on grid electricity and traditional energy supply, you’re exposed to factors far beyond your control.

But what if you could reduce that exposure — and take back control?

That’s exactly why more homeowners are investing in renewable energy.

Why Energy Bills Feel So Unpredictable

Traditional energy pricing is influenced by:

• Wholesale market fluctuations

• Supply and demand pressures

• Infrastructure and distribution costs

• Regulatory and environmental levies

As a homeowner, you don’t control any of these.

When prices rise, you pay more. When standing charges increase, you absorb the cost. Even fixing into tariffs doesn’t guarantee long-term stability.

For many families, this makes budgeting harder and long-term financial planning uncertain.

The Shift from Energy Consumer to Energy Producer

Installing solar panels changes the equation completely.

Instead of relying solely on external suppliers, your home generates its own electricity. That means:

• Lower dependence on grid energy

• Reduced exposure to price increases

• Greater visibility over your long-term costs

When paired with battery storage, you can store excess power and use it when you need it most — even during peak pricing periods.

It’s not just about saving money today. It’s about creating predictable energy costs for decades.

Renewable Energy as Financial Stability

A well-designed solar system can provide 20-30 years of energy generation.

That means:

• Long-term reduction in monthly bills

• Protection against future price spikes

• Strong return on investment

• Increased property value

Instead of worrying about where energy prices might go next year, you’re investing in stability.

For many households, renewable energy isn’t just an environmental decision anymore - it’s a financial one.

Battery Storage: Even More Control

Battery storage adds another layer of independence.

It allows you to:

• Store excess solar energy generated during the day

• Use stored energy in the evening

• Reduce reliance on peak-rate electricity

• Increase overall system efficiency

In practical terms, that means more control over when you draw power from the grid - and how much you pay for it.

Future-Proofing Your Home

Energy markets will always fluctuate. That’s the nature of global supply systems.

But your exposure to those fluctuations is a choice.

By investing in renewable technology now, you:

• Lock in long-term energy savings

• Reduce your vulnerability to market shifts

• Improve your home’s sustainability

• Lower your carbon footprint

It’s about making your home more resilient.

Is Now the Right Time?

Many homeowners assume solar is something to consider “in the future.”

But every year you delay is another year fully exposed to rising costs.

With improved panel efficiency, smarter battery systems and flexible financing options, renewable energy is more accessible than ever.

Take Control of Your Energy Future

At UKGEI, we help homeowners design renewable systems tailored to their property, usage and budget.

Our approach focuses on:

• Clear savings projections

• Transparent installation processes

• Long-term performance

• Reliable aftercare support

If you’re ready to reduce uncertainty and take control of your energy bills, we’re here to help.

Book your free home energy assessment today and discover what renewable energy could mean for your household.

Energy Bills Are Falling — But Solar & Battery Storage Still Makes Sense in 2026

There’s good news for UK households and businesses this spring: Ofgem has announced a 7% reduction in the energy price cap, meaning typical energy bills will fall by around £117 a year from April 2026. This comes after months of volatility in energy markets and reflects government policy changes aimed at relieving cost pressures for consumers.

But while this reduction brings welcome short-term relief, energy costs remain much higher than they were before the global energy crisis, and uncertainty still looms. That’s where solar panels and battery storage offer long-term protection, control, and savings that go beyond temporary price movements.

Why the Price Cap Is Falling — and Why Bills Are Still High

Ofgem’s latest update dropped the price cap from around £1,758 to £1,641 a year for an average household — that’s about £10 less per month. The cut reflects both falling wholesale energy costs and government moves to shift certain green levies off customer bills.

That said, energy costs are still roughly 30% higher than pre-crisis levels. And bills can fluctuate again in future quarters depending on wholesale markets, inflation, and infrastructure costs.

Why Solar + Battery Is Still a Smart Choice

Here’s why installing a solar system with energy storage makes sense even when the price cap dips:

1. Lock in energy you control

Solar panels generate your own electricity, and paired with batteries, you can store that energy for use when the sun isn’t shining. That means less reliance on grid prices that can rise again.

2. Protect against future price volatility

The recent price cap reduction doesn’t stop prices from moving again later. With solar and batteries, you’re not just reacting to quarterly pricing — you’re reducing your exposure to unpredictable electricity costs.

3. Boost energy independence

Battery storage maximises self-consumption of your solar power and can reduce evening and peak-time grid imports — which saves money and improves resilience.

4. Contribute to long-term sustainability

Solar reduces carbon emissions and future-proofs your home or business against the broader energy transition. The UK solar and battery sectors are also supporting economic growth and energy security at a national level.

Real-World Value

For many homeowners, solar + storage can:

• Slash electricity bills year after year;

• Provide resilience during peak price periods;

• Increase property value and curb carbon footprint.

For businesses, solar and battery solutions help:

• Reduce operating costs;

• Improve sustainability reporting;

• Hedge against energy market uncertainty.

Conclusion

Yes —energy bills are set to fall in the short term. But temporary price movements shouldn’t be the only factor in your energy decisions. With solar and battery storage, you gain long-term energy independence, smoother costs, and sustainable savings.

If you’re interested in a personalised quote or an energy cost analysis for your property or business, get in touch!

Best EV Chargers for UK Homes in 2026

With electric vehicle ownership continuing to rise across the UK, choosing the right home EV charger has never been more important. In 2026, EV chargers are no longer just about plugging in — they’re about smart charging, solar integration, load management and future-proofing.

So which EV chargers are actually worth considering for UK homes this year?

Here’s a clear, practical guide to the best EV chargers for UK homes in 2026, and how to choose the right one for your setup.

What to Look for in a Home EV Charger in 2026

Before comparing brands, it’s worth understanding what really matters now:

• Smart charging (app control, scheduling, monitoring)

• Solar integration (use excess solar instead of grid power)

• Load balancing (protects your main fuse)

• Compatibility with time-of-use tariffs

• Build quality & support

• Future-proof features (OCPP, updates, scalability)

The “best” charger depends on your home, your EV and whether you have (or plan to install) solar and battery storage.

1. Zappi — Best for Solar Homes

Best for: Homes with solar panels installed
Why it stands out: Solar optimisation

Zappi remains one of the most popular EV chargers in the UK — and for good reason.

Key benefits:

• Designed specifically for solar integration

• Diverts surplus solar energy into your EV

• Multiple charging modes (eco, eco+, fast)

• Works well with smart tariffs

If your goal is maximising solar self-consumption, Zappi is still one of the strongest options in 2026.

2. Andersen — Best for Design-Focused Homes

Best for: Homeowners who care about aesthetics
Why it stands out: Premium design + hidden cable

Andersen chargers combine smart charging with a strong design focus.

Key benefits:

• Cable neatly hidden inside the unit

• Custom finishes to match your property

• Smart app control and scheduling

• Suitable for modern and traditional homes

If you want a charger that looks good on the front of your house without compromising on functionality, Andersen is a popular choice.

3. Tesla Wall Connector — Best for Tesla Owners

Best for: Tesla drivers
Why it stands out: Seamless Tesla integration

The Tesla Wall Connector is designed specifically for Tesla vehicles.

Key benefits:

• Direct compatibility with Tesla cars

• Fast, reliable charging

• Clean, minimal design

• Ideal for Tesla-only households

While it lacks some solar-specific features, it’s a solid option if you’re fully in the Tesla ecosystem.

4. Pod Point — Best Simple Smart Charger

Best for: Straightforward home charging
Why it stands out: Simplicity and reliability

Pod Point is widely used across the UK and offers a no-nonsense approach.

Key benefits:

• Simple app scheduling

• Reliable performance

• Good support network

• Popular for standard overnight charging

It’s a good option if you want a trusted brand without advanced energy management features.

5. Rolec — Best Budget-Friendly Option

Best for: Cost-conscious installs
Why it stands out: Value for money

Rolec chargers offer a more affordable entry point.

Key benefits:

• Lower upfront cost

• Basic smart features available

• Suitable for simple installs

While not as advanced as some premium models, Rolec chargers can still be a practical choice depending on requirements.

Which EV Charger Is Right for You?

The right charger depends on:

• Your EV model

• Whether you have solar panels

• Your electricity tariff

• Your property’s electrical capacity

• Whether aesthetics matter to you

• Future plans (battery storage, second EV)

For example:

• Solar home → Zappi

• Design-led home → Andersen

• Tesla owner → Tesla Wall Connector

• Simple overnight charging → Pod Point

• Budget-led install → Rolec

Smart EV Chargers and Solar Integration

In 2026, more homeowners are combining EV chargers with:

• Solar PV

• Battery storage

• Hybrid inverters

• Smart tariffs

When integrated correctly, a smart EV charger can:

• Charge using excess solar

• Avoid peak electricity rates

• Reduce grid reliance

• Improve overall energy savings

This is why charger selection should be part of a whole-home energy design, not a standalone decision.

Installation Matters More Than the Charger

Even the best EV charger won’t perform well if it’s poorly installed.

A professional installation should include:

• Load assessment

• PEN fault protection

• Correct cable routing

• Safe earthing

• Smart configuration and testing

Choosing an experienced installer ensures your charger is safe, compliant and future-proof.

Final Thoughts

There’s no single “best” EV charger for every home — but there is a best charger for your home.

In 2026, the smartest approach is to:

• Choose a charger that fits your energy setup

• Plan for solar and battery integration

• Install with future expansion in mind

If you’re considering installing a home EV charger in Surrey, Hampshire or Berkshire, a tailored assessment will help ensure you choose the right charger and configuration from day one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the OZEV EV charger grant available for homeowners in 2026?

In 2026, OZEV support is generally more targeted than it used to be. Most homeowners in single-occupancy houses with a private driveway won’t qualify, but you may be eligible if you live in a flat, rental property, or have shared parking.

Who can still qualify for the OZEV grant?

Eligibility typically applies to situations such as rented properties, flats/apartments, buildings with shared parking, and landlord-supported installations. The exact criteria depend on the specific OZEV scheme being used.

How much is the OZEV EV charger grant in 2026?

Grant values can change and are usually capped to a fixed amount per chargepoint rather than covering the full cost. The best approach is to confirm the current value and eligibility before installation begins.

How do I apply for an OZEV EV charger grant?

In most cases, your installer handles the grant claim. Eligibility is confirmed first, the installation is designed to meet scheme requirements, and the grant amount is then deducted from your invoice where applicable.

What if I don’t qualify for the OZEV grant?

You can still reduce EV charging costs with smart charging, off-peak tariffs and solar integration. Many households find that long-term savings from tariff optimisation and solar charging outweigh a one-off grant.

Is it still worth installing an EV charger without a grant?

For most EV owners, yes. Home charging is typically cheaper and more convenient than public charging. A smart EV charger can also help you charge at the lowest-cost times and better control energy use.

How to Build a Home Energy System That Minimises Grid Reliance

Energy prices remain unpredictable, grid capacity is tightening in parts of the UK, and more homeowners are asking the same question:

“How can I reduce my reliance on the grid?”

The answer isn’t just solar panels — it’s a properly designed, integrated home energy system. When solar, battery storage, EV charging and smart tariffs work together, you can dramatically reduce the amount of electricity you buy from the grid.

Here’s how to build a system that does exactly that.

Step 1: Start With Solar PV (Your Generation Layer)

Solar panels are the foundation of any low-grid home. Our solar panel installation services are designed to maximise generation and long-term savings.

A typical 4-6 kWp residential system in the South East can generate 3,500 to 5,000 kWh per year, covering a large proportion of daytime electricity usage.

To minimise grid reliance:

• Maximise usable roof space where viable

• Consider panel efficiency and orientation

• Plan future expansion (EVs, heat pumps, extensions)

Solar reduces the electricity you need to buy - but on its own, it won’t eliminate grid use.

Why? Because most homes generate power in the day but use it in the evening.

That’s where storage comes in. Adding home battery storage allows you to store excess energy and reduce evening grid imports.

Step 2: Add Battery Storage (Your Control Layer)

A battery allows you to:

• Store excess solar energy during the day

• Use it in the evening instead of buying from the grid

• Charge from cheap off-peak tariffs

• Provide optional backup power

Without storage, many homes only use 30 to 40% of their solar energy directly.

With a battery, self-consumption can rise significantly - reducing both grid import and peak-rate exposure.

For most homes, a 5–15 kWh battery system is typical, depending on daily usage and savings goals.

Step 3: Optimise With Smart Tariffs

Even with solar and storage, you’ll likely still draw some grid electricity — especially in winter.

Smart time-of-use tariffs allow you to:

• Charge your battery overnight at low rates

• Discharge during peak-rate hours

• Reduce average electricity cost

This is particularly effective for:

• EV owners

• Electrically heated homes

• Higher energy households

When configured properly, your system automatically shifts energy use to the cheapest times.

Step 4: Integrate EV Charging

An EV is often the largest new electrical load in a home.

If unmanaged, it increases grid reliance.

If integrated correctly, it becomes part of your energy ecosystem.

A smart EV charger can:

• Prioritise solar charging

• Use stored battery energy

• Charge during off-peak periods

• Avoid peak tariff spikes

When combined with a smart EV charger, your system becomes a fully integrated energy solution.

Done properly, your EV becomes a controllable asset rather than a grid drain.

Step 5: Design for the Right Size (Avoid Underbuilding)

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is under-sizing systems.

To genuinely reduce grid reliance, your system should be designed around:

• Annual kWh consumption

• Evening and peak usage

• Future loads (EV, heat pump, home office)

• Desired backup capability

This is why professional system design and modelling matters - not just installing panels and hoping for the best.

Step 6: Understand Seasonal Reality

No UK home is 100% off-grid year-round without extreme oversizing.

In winter:

• Solar generation drops

• Heating demand rises

• Grid use increases

The goal isn’t total independence.

The goal is:

• Minimising peak-rate exposure

• Reducing annual grid imports

• Maximising self-generated energy use

• Protecting against price volatility

What Does a Low-Grid Home Look Like?

A well-designed system in Surrey, Hampshire or Berkshire might include:

• 5–8 kWp solar array

• 10–15 kWh battery storage

• Hybrid inverter

• Smart EV charger

• Time-of-use tariff optimisation

This can dramatically reduce reliance on the grid and increase energy independence — especially in spring, summer and autumn.

Is It Worth It?

For many households in the South East:

• Electricity savings improve ROI

• Exposure to price spikes reduces

• Backup capability adds resilience

• Property appeal increases

The key is integration.

Solar alone reduces bills.
Battery alone shifts costs.
Tariffs alone reduce rates.

Combined, they form a complete energy strategy.

Final Thoughts

Minimising grid reliance isn’t about going fully off-grid.

It’s about:

• Smarter design

• Smarter storage

• Smarter usage

When your system is built as one ecosystem rather than separate components, it becomes far more powerful.

If you’re considering building a home energy system tailored to your usage, our team at UK Green Energy Installations can assess your property and provide a detailed projection based on real consumption data.

Top 5 Questions Businesses Ask About Solar & Battery Storage

A Guide for Companies in Hampshire, Surrey & Berkshire

With rising energy costs and growing sustainability requirements, more UK businesses are investing in commercial solar panels and battery storage systems. For organisations in Hampshire, Surrey and Berkshire, solar energy offers long-term cost savings, energy resilience, and reduced reliance on the grid.

Below, we answer the five most common questions businesses ask before investing in solar and battery storage.

1. How Much Does Commercial Solar & Battery Storage Cost?

The cost of a commercial solar and battery storage system depends on:

• Roof covering type

• Land size

• Battery capacity required

• Grid connection requirements

For most UK businesses, solar panels deliver a payback period of 4–7 years, with battery storage improving savings by increasing self-consumption and reducing peak electricity charges.

2. Is Solar & Battery Storage Worth It for My Business?

Yes — particularly for businesses that:

• Operate during daylight hours

• Have high electricity usage

• Want predictable energy costs

• Aim to improve ESG or sustainability credentials

Battery storage allows businesses to:

• Store excess solar energy

• Reduce peak demand charges

• Improve resilience during grid outages

Although energy stored in batteries can be below consumption level, solar systems are especially valuable for manufacturing, logistics, offices, retail, and warehouses.

Case study highlight:
UKGEI installed a solar and battery storage system at a sports ground, enabling outdoor lighting to be powered sustainably while reducing grid dependency. The battery system stores solar energy during the day and releases it during evening events, dramatically lowering operating costs and carbon emissions.

3. Do Businesses Need Battery Storage with Solar Panels?

Battery storage isn’t mandatory — but it significantly improves system performance.

Without batteries:

• Excess solar is exported to the grid at lower rates

With batteries:

• Energy is stored and used when prices are highest

• Grid reliance is reduced

• Overall return on investment improves

For many businesses in Surrey and Berkshire, battery storage is particularly effective where peak tariffs apply.

Real-world example:
One UKGEI commercial client invested in multiple battery storage units to protect their operations from inconsistent grid supply and peak-time disruptions. The system now stores energy during low-cost periods and releases it during outages and demand spikes — ensuring continuity and operational stability.

4. Are There Grants or Tax Incentives for Commercial Solar?

Although there is no single nationwide grant, UK businesses can benefit from:

• Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) — claim up to £1 million against taxable profits*

• Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) — payments for exported energy

• Local authority or sector-specific funding (varies by region)

5. How Long Does Commercial Solar Installation Take?

A typical commercial solar project includes:

1. Energy assessment and system design

2. DNO approval (if required)

3. Installation and commissioning

Most installations take a few weeks to a few months, depending on system size and grid approvals. Many rooftop commercial solar systems fall under permitted development, meaning planning permission isn’t usually required.

Conclusion: Solar & Battery Storage for Businesses in Hampshire, Surrey & Berkshire

Commercial solar and battery storage systems offer businesses:

• Lower energy costs

• Increased energy security

• Improved sustainability credentials

If your business operates in Hampshire, Surrey or Berkshire, UKGEI can provide a site-specific feasibility study, tailored design, and full installation service.

Speak to UKGEI today to find out how much your business could save with solar and battery storage.

*AIA applies to qualifying plant and machinery only. Relief is capped at £1m per accounting period and subject to HMRC rules and business eligibility see here.

Proven Commercial Solar & Battery Projects

UKGEI has delivered commercial solar and battery storage systems across a wide range of sectors — from warehouses and sports facilities to critical infrastructure sites requiring energy resilience.

• Battery storage for inconsistent grid supply

• Solar and battery systems for outdoor lighting

• Commercial solar installations improving EPC ratings

Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Solar & Battery Storage

Is solar and battery storage worth it for UK businesses?

Yes. Commercial solar and battery storage systems can reduce electricity costs, improve energy resilience, and support sustainability goals. Returns are often strongest where energy use is high and battery storage can reduce peak demand charges.

How much do commercial solar panels cost in the UK?

Costs vary depending on system size, energy usage, roof or ground conditions, and grid requirements. Most commercial systems deliver a strong long-term return, and battery storage can improve savings by increasing the amount of solar energy you use on site.

Do businesses need battery storage with solar panels?

Battery storage isn’t essential, but it can significantly improve performance. It stores excess solar generation for later use, reduces reliance on the grid, and can help protect operations during outages or periods of inconsistent supply.

Are there tax incentives for commercial solar installations?

In many cases, yes. UK businesses may be able to claim Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) on qualifying solar and battery investments, and you may also earn payments for exported electricity through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), depending on your setup.

How long does it take to install commercial solar panels?

Typical timelines range from a few weeks to a few months depending on system size, site access, and whether Distribution Network Operator (DNO) approval is required. Many rooftop systems can be installed with minimal disruption.

Can solar panels improve a commercial building’s EPC rating?

Yes. Solar PV can improve EPC performance by reducing carbon emissions and lowering a building’s energy demand, which can make the property more attractive to tenants and support better leasing outcomes.

Can solar and battery storage power outdoor lighting or facilities?

Yes. Solar and battery storage are ideal for sites like sports grounds where energy use extends into evenings. Solar can generate during the day, while batteries store that energy for use later to power lighting and other loads.

Does UKGEI install commercial solar systems in Hampshire, Surrey and Berkshire?

Yes. UKGEI provides commercial solar panel and battery storage installations across Hampshire, Surrey and Berkshire, including site assessment, system design, installation, and aftercare.

Record Renewable Electricity in 2025: What It Means for the UK’s Energy Infrastructure

Great Britain generated a record amount of renewable electricity in 2025, with wind and solar delivering their highest ever contribution to the national grid. According to recent BBC analysis of provisional data from the National Energy System Operator (NESO), renewables produced more than 127 terawatt hours (TWh) of electricity last year — surpassing the previous record set in 2024.

Wind remained the largest contributor, accounting for nearly 30% of total electricity generation, while solar power saw particularly striking growth, rising by almost a third compared to the previous year. Solar panels generated over 18TWh, helped by the UK’s sunniest year on record and continued expansion of both large solar farms and rooftop installations.

You can read the full BBC analysis here:
Record year for wind and solar electricity in Great Britain

Progress — but not the full picture

These figures highlight genuine progress in the UK’s transition to cleaner power. On roughly one third of days in 2025, renewables supplied at least half of Britain’s electricity — an unthinkable scenario just over a decade ago.

However, the data also underlines a critical challenge. Electricity generation from fossil gas rose slightly in 2025, reaching around 27% of total supply. This increase reflects a combination of higher demand, lower nuclear output, reduced electricity imports and the closure of the UK’s last coal power station.

Figure: Illustrative comparison of the UK electricity generation mix in 2015 and 2025, showing the growth of renewable electricity and the reduction in fossil fuel generation. Percentages are based on BBC analysis of National Energy System Operator (NESO) data and historic UK energy statistics.

As a result, overall grid emissions rose marginally compared with 2024 — a reminder that record renewable output does not automatically translate into a fully decarbonised system.

The infrastructure challenge ahead

The government’s clean power target aims for 95% of electricity to come from clean sources by 2030. While renewable deployment is accelerating, experts warn that current progress is not yet on the scale required to meet this ambition.

A major limiting factor is infrastructure.

Renewables such as wind and solar are inherently variable, and the grid must be able to:

• Store surplus electricity through battery and other storage technologies

• Move power efficiently across regions via grid reinforcement and upgrades

• Balance supply during periods of low wind and sunlight without defaulting to fossil fuels

At present, constraints on the network mean renewable generators are sometimes paid to reduce output — an inefficiency that ultimately feeds into consumer costs.

What this means for the energy sector

For the UK energy industry, 2025’s figures send a clear message:

• Renewable generation is no longer marginal — it is central

• Grid modernisation is now as important as generation capacity

• Investment in storage, flexibility and transmission will determine whether clean power targets are achievable — and affordable

While renewable electricity is among the cheapest forms of generation, the transition must be supported by the right infrastructure to ensure reliability, resilience and long-term cost reduction for consumers.

Looking ahead

The record renewable output of 2025 is a milestone worth recognising. But it is also a reminder that the next phase of the UK’s energy transition will be defined less by headline generation figures — and more by the infrastructure that supports them. Grid capacity, storage, flexibility and long-term system planning will be critical in turning renewable growth into a resilient, affordable energy system.

UKGEI will continue to track what these trends mean for the UK’s energy and infrastructure sectors.
Follow us for insight and analysis on the transition to a cleaner, more resilient power system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did renewable electricity generation increase in the UK in 2025?

Renewable electricity generation increased in 2025 due to continued investment in wind and solar capacity, the expansion of large-scale solar farms and rooftop installations, and favourable weather conditions, including the UK’s sunniest year on record.

How much of the UK’s electricity came from renewables in 2025?

In 2025, renewable sources including wind, solar, hydro and biomass generated more than 127 terawatt hours of electricity in Great Britain, accounting for around half of total electricity generation on some days.

Why does the UK still rely on gas for electricity generation?

The UK continues to rely on gas-fired power stations to meet electricity demand when renewable output is low, particularly during periods of low wind and limited sunlight. Gas currently provides flexibility and reliability while alternative solutions such as large-scale storage and grid upgrades are developed.

Is the UK on track to meet its clean power target by 2030?

While renewable deployment is increasing, experts suggest the UK is not yet on track to meet its target of 95% clean electricity by 2030 without faster progress in grid infrastructure, energy storage, system flexibility and low-carbon baseload generation.

What infrastructure is needed to support more renewable energy?

Supporting higher levels of renewable energy requires significant investment in electricity grid reinforcement, battery storage and other flexibility technologies, improved transmission capacity, and systems that balance supply and demand across regions.

How does renewable electricity affect energy bills in the UK?

Renewable electricity is among the cheapest forms of new power generation, but short-term infrastructure upgrades and grid constraints can add costs. Over time, increased renewable capacity is expected to reduce exposure to volatile fossil fuel prices and help stabilise energy bills.