Electricity demand could rise 19 per cent by 2035

Domestic demand electricity in the UK could rise by 19 per cent by 2035.

UK cities are also set to see rises of up to 44 per cent due to a surge in the use of electricity for new technology, electric vehicles and an increased urban population, according to new research from Smart Energy GB.

The study, which analysed increases in energy demand in 11 major cities, found that Cardiff would see the highest increase in demand of 44 per cent by 2035, followed by London (39 per cent) and Bristol (34 per cent).

Gas demand is also predicted to rise by 28 per cent in Cardiff, 23 per cent in London and 19 per cent in Bristol. Liverpool saw the lowest rise in domestic demand of 20 per cent for electricity and 8 per cent for gas.

Chief executive of Smart Energy GB – the national campaign for the UK smart meter rollout – Sacha Deshmukh said: “This report looks at the challenges and opportunities ahead for our cities as energy demands change. It provides, for the first time, a detailed, city-level picture of future energy needs.

“Smart meters are an essential step to a smarter future. Many cities have already started to use smart technology to create cleaner, greener environments.”

The report called for more use of renewable sources to meet the increased demand, but peaks and troughs in supply of electricity caused by changes in the weather will need to be managed, it said.

President of the institution of Civil Engineers, John Armitt, said: “Our energy sector is at the start of a revolution. With two thirds of our fossil fuel power stations expected to be decommissioned over the next 15 years, other energy sources are coming to the fore, as we seek new ways to power our energy network in the most efficient way possible.

“This report underscores the need for infrastructure investment that ensures our cities and communities are able to meet energy demands in the future.”