For the first time in history, renewable energy is set to generate more electricity than fossil fuels in the UK this year, according to a new report by energy think tank Ember.
Wind, solar, and hydropower are projected to supply 37% of the UK’s electricity in 2024, surpassing the 35% expected from fossil fuels. This forecast is based on actual electricity generation data and projections for the remainder of the year.
Just three years ago, in 2021, fossil fuels were responsible for 46% of UK electricity generation, while renewables made up 27%. Ember’s analysis also notes that wind power is on track to surpass gas as the largest single source of power, although the difference in generation between the two is narrow, making it too close to call for 2024.
“This milestone marks significant progress for the UK,” said Frankie Mayo, Senior Energy & Climate Analyst at Ember.
The shift away from fossil fuels has been driven by the phase-out of coal-fired power plants, alongside a rapid increase in renewable energy, particularly from offshore wind farms. In September 2024, the UK closed its last coal power plant, becoming the first G7 country to do so.
However, while renewable energy is making strides, achieving a fully clean power grid by 2030 remains a challenge. The Labour party, which had initially pledged to eliminate carbon emissions from the grid by the end of the decade, recently revised its target. Prime Minister Keir Starmer now aims for 95% clean power by 2030.
Despite progress in decarbonizing the grid, the UK continues to rely heavily on natural gas for electricity generation, heating, and industrial use. The National Energy System Operator (NESO) warned last month that the transition to a low-carbon energy system will require substantial investment in infrastructure and changes to demand patterns.
In summary, while the UK is on the verge of achieving a historic shift toward renewable energy, the journey to a fully green grid is far from complete, with significant challenges remaining.
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