wind
Jan 6, 2025
Wind is biggest source of UK electricity for first time
In 2024, wind power became the largest single source of electricity in the UK, surpassing gas-fired plants with a 30% share of the energy mix.
This shift was driven by a 3% increase in wind farm capacity, particularly offshore. Electricity imports also surged to a record 16%, overtaking nuclear power. Britain’s domestic fossil fuel generation fell to 27%, its lowest ever, leading to a 15% reduction in emissions. The country shut down its last coal-fired plant in 2023. The government aims to achieve 95% clean electricity by 2030. Despite a 25% reduction in wholesale electricity costs, consumer energy bills did not decrease as significantly due to pricing structures. The reliance on gas to meet peak demands remains a factor in overall electricity pricing. Read more.