Virtual power plants and net zero targets: A case study of the United Kingdom

With increasing international climate concerns, getting to net zero emissions has become a top priority for many countries. The energy sector is crucial to the shift to a future powered by sustainable energy. To this end, virtual power plants (VPPs), have emerged as a powerful tool with the ability to transform energy systems by integrating renewable energy sources (RES), energy storage technologies, enabling demand response programs, empowering consumer participation, and improving grid management. This study presents a detailed analysis of VPPs as a way of achieving net-zero targets, focusing on the case study of the United Kingdom (UK). By assessing the UK's energy environment, its energy policies and legislative framework, the advancement of renewable energy technologies, increasing flexibility, and the transition towards sustainable energy systems. The approach presented shows the viability of VPPs to lower carbon footprint and emphasizes on accelerating the transition away from fossil fuels to further reduce carbon emissions associated with traditional power generation.