What's happened
In 2024, wind energy generated nearly 83 TWh of electricity in Great Britain, surpassing fossil fuels for the first time. The shift reflects a broader trend towards renewable energy, with clean sources now accounting for 58% of the grid. The UK aims for less than 5% fossil fuel reliance by 2030.
Go deeper
Renewable Energy Growth
- Wind energy now generates 26% of the UK's electricity.
- Renewables, including solar and biomass, account for 58% of total generation.
Decline of Fossil Fuels
- Major fossil fuel generation dropped to 26% in 2024.
- The last coal power station closed, marking a significant milestone.
Future Projections
- Wind is expected to overtake gas as the largest power source in 2025.
- Continued investment in renewable technologies and energy storage is crucial.
Environmental Impact
- Carbon emissions from electricity generation fell to 124g/kWh, a significant reduction from 419g/kWh in 2014.
- The transition to cleaner energy sources is essential for meeting net-zero targets.
What the papers say
According to the BBC, wind energy generated nearly 83 TWh in 2024, marking a significant increase from 79 TWh in 2023. The National Energy System Operator (Neso) reported that fossil fuel generation fell to just over a quarter of total electricity. The Independent highlighted that renewables accounted for a record 58% of the UK's power, with wind surpassing gas generation for the first time. Analysts predict that wind will likely become the dominant source of electricity in 2025, reflecting a broader trend towards cleaner energy. Carbon Brief noted that the carbon intensity of electricity generation has decreased significantly, indicating progress in the UK's energy transition.
How we got here
The UK has significantly reduced its reliance on fossil fuels over the past decade, with coal generation phased out and renewables like wind and solar rising sharply. The government's Clean Power 2030 Action Plan aims for a cleaner energy mix.
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