- Renewable energy sources achieved a record 51.6% of the UK’s electricity generation in Q2 2023, reflecting a 19% year-on-year increase.
- Despite rising renewable output, overall electricity generation fell to a record low of 63.5 TWh, raising concerns about the UK’s reliance on gas and energy imports.
New government data reveals that renewable sources accounted for 51.6% of the UK’s electricity generation between April and June 2023, marking a 19% increase year-on-year. The Department of Energy Security and Net Zero’s (DESNZ) quarterly Energy Trends report indicates this is the third consecutive quarter where renewables have surpassed 50% of power demand.
Additionally, nuclear energy output rose by 12% due to fewer outages, contributing to a 17% increase in low-carbon generation, now representing 69.5% of total electricity. Fossil fuel generation experienced a significant decline, with gas production dropping by 37% to a record low.
Meanwhile, coal generation approached negligible levels ahead of the UK’s last coal-fired power station closure next week. The report highlights that fossil fuels comprise only 26.6% of the energy mix, a historic low, with wind energy outpacing gas generation for three quarters.
Despite these advancements, overall electricity generation fell to a record low of 63.5 TWh, down 4% from last year. UK energy production decreased by 7%, driven by an 18% decline in natural gas and a 9% drop in petroleum production. This decrease has led to a rise in net import dependency from 36.7% to 42.2%.
Jess Ralston, head of energy at the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU), praised the record renewable generation and highlighted its success in the UK’s transition to net zero. Ralston noted that as gas prices are set to rise, renewables like offshore wind farms help stabilise costs and reduce import needs.
However, Ralston cautioned that high household gas demand still leaves the UK vulnerable to price spikes, emphasising the need for better home insulation to alleviate energy bills and health costs. The DESNZ report coincides with a slight decrease in August 2023 applications for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), though applications remain double compared to last year, and grants paid have reached a record total of 32,572.
Gav Murray from Centrica highlighted the ongoing demand for heat pump technology and urged collaboration to build a skilled workforce for this growing sector. Ralston reiterated that accelerating the deployment of electric heat pumps is crucial for reducing gas demand and enhancing energy security, advocating for continued support and supply chain development in this area.