Is Wales Best-Placed to Lead the World in Off-Grid Energy?
A new policy paper published by Industry Wales asks a bold question: can Wales leapfrog traditional energy infrastructure and become a global pioneer in off-grid energy solutions?
Titled "Establishing Wales as a Global Leader in Off-Grid Energy Solutions", the proposal sets out a strategic vision for how Wales could use devolved powers to bypass grid constraints and take the lead in decentralised clean energy—generating not just power, but long-term economic growth, skilled jobs, and energy sovereignty.
The paper outlines a phased path for Wales to embrace technologies such as community-owned microgrids, marine-based tidal power, and green hydrogen networks—while using existing levers like planning reform, capital grants, and skills investment to accelerate progress.
💬 “This is about putting Wales in control of its energy future,” said Dr Jenifer Baxter, CEO of Industry Wales. “Our geography, innovation capacity and devolved powers make us uniquely placed to lead—if we act now.”
Gridlock Threatens Net-Zero Goals
According to the report, the existing UK energy grid model is holding Wales back:
Mid Wales lacks high-voltage transmission capacity
Planning delays of 12+ years are common
The “first come, first served” connection model causes decade-long backlogs
Critical North-South transmission upgrades won’t arrive until 2037
Meanwhile, energy developers are pushing ahead—Bute Energy, for instance, plans to build 200 turbines by 2030. Without urgent reform, many projects risk curtailment.
A Different Path: Off-Grid Opportunity
The briefing sets out three off-grid technologies as Wales’ best opportunity to lead:
Community Microgrids – delivering local energy security, lower bills, and skilled jobs
Tidal Stream Power – offering stable, predictable generation off the Welsh coast
Green Hydrogen Microgrids – helping decarbonise industry and open up export markets
All three approaches can be deployed at scale and speed—particularly in rural or energy-poor regions.
Tools Already in Our Hands
Importantly, the strategy focuses on policy levers that are already devolved to Wales, including:
Direct funding for local energy innovation
Business rate relief for green infrastructure
Energy Innovation Zones with streamlined planning
Skills and workforce investment
Public procurement favouring Welsh supply chains
The call to action is clear: Wales can move now—if decision-makers, communities and industry pull together.