6 Key Energy Trends to Watch in 2025

The energy world is changing fast, and 2025 is shaping up to be another big year. Whether you’re a business leader, investor, or just someone keeping an eye on where the industry is headed, staying ahead of the curve is essential. At Trident, we’re always looking at what’s next, and here are six major energy trends you should know about this year.

1. The Push for Net Zero Is Gaining Speed

Governments and businesses are stepping up their game when it comes to cutting emissions. More policies are rolling out, and companies are seriously investing in clean energy tech.

The momentum is undeniable—over half of the 2,000 biggest companies worldwide now have a net zero (NZ) target, a 40% increase in just 16 months. The Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) saw 113% more companies setting NZ targets in 2023 compared to 2022.

The UK is at the forefront of this push. The government recently announced a tougher 2035 net zero target, requiring an 81% emission reduction. Labour has also declared plans for an entirely green grid by 2035. These commitments signal that businesses must act now to align with evolving regulations and expectations.

2. Energy Prices Are Still a Wild Ride

Markets remain unpredictable. Geopolitics, supply chain issues, and shifting regulations all affect pricing, making it challenging to forecast costs. Europe’s gas storage levels are currently lower than usual, pushing prices up.

Meanwhile, the UK’s green economy is providing a counterbalance. In 2023, it grew by 9%, significantly outpacing the rest of the economy, which saw just 0.1% growth. Companies investing in clean energy and sustainability are proving more resilient in volatile markets.

3. Clean Energy Is Getting Cheaper

Here’s some good news: renewable energy costs keep dropping. Wind, solar, and battery storage are now cheaper than building new coal or gas plants in most places. A big reason? China is producing clean tech at a massive scale, driving down costs worldwide. If you’re considering making the switch, now’s a great time.

This shift is fuelling broader economic benefits. The net-zero economy contributed £74 billion to the UK in 2023, with green jobs generating approximately £114,300 in economic activity per position - well above the UK average of £72,550. With McKinsey estimating the green economy could be worth £1 trillion by 2030, businesses that embrace clean energy now will be well-positioned for the future.

4. Smarter Grids and Better Storage Are Changing the Game

The way we store and distribute energy is evolving. Energy storage solutions are improving, and smart grids are helping manage power more efficiently. With over 41 billion IoT-connected devices expected by 2025, tech is playing a more prominent role than ever in using and optimising energy.

However, scaling these innovations requires expertise, and many UK businesses are struggling to keep up. A recent EY survey found that 35% of UK businesses are finding it challenging to hire NZ expertise, and 33% of UK boards lack adequate NZ skills. Closing this talent gap will be critical for companies looking to integrate more innovative energy solutions.

5. Green Hydrogen Is on the Rise

Hydrogen has been a buzzword for a while, but now it’s becoming a real contender in clean energy. Green hydrogen - made using renewable energy - could help power industries that are tricky to decarbonise, like steelmaking and shipping. Governments and private companies are pouring investment into scaling it up, so expect to hear a lot more about it this year.

6. Energy Security Is a Bigger Priority Than Ever

With all the global uncertainty, energy security is a hot topic. Countries are diversifying their energy sources to ensure they aren’t too reliant on one type of fuel or supplier. That means more investment in renewables, nuclear, and sustainable fossil fuel technologies to keep the lights on, no matter what happens.

The UK’s renewed focus on its NZ commitments ties directly into energy security. As Labour pushes for a green grid by 2035 and the government tightens its NZ targets, the shift towards self-sufficient, renewable energy sources is accelerating.

What This Means for You

These trends aren’t just headlines - they’re shaping the future of energy. Whether you’re thinking about energy investments, sustainability strategies, or just keeping costs under control, staying ahead of these shifts is key.

At Trident, we’re here to help you navigate these changes. Have questions? Let’s discuss how to make the most of what’s coming next.