Power producers in the United Kingdom have significantly reduced their reliance on fossil fuels for electricity generation during the first five months of 2024. This is according to data from the British think tank Ember.
Reuters reports that the data reveals a 16% decline in fossil fuel usage compared to the same period in 2023. This reduction led to the generation of 33.55 terawatt hours (TWh) of electricity from fossil fuels, the lowest for the January to May period in at least nine years. This marks the third consecutive year of reductions in fossil fuel use during this timeframe.
The decline in fossil fuel usage has also resulted in a substantial drop in emissions. UK power sector emissions from fossil fuels fell by 14%, equivalent to a reduction of over 3 million metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) between January and May 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.
Simultaneously, power firms increased output from clean energy sources by 10% from January to May. This surge in clean energy production led to a record 66.1% average share of total electricity generation from clean power sources.
In comparison, clean electricity accounted for just under 61% of total generation in the same period in 2023, highlighting a significant shift towards renewable energy.
According to Ember’s data, the UK’s clean power share for the first five months of 2024 exceeded the European average of 63% and the clean energy shares of major European countries like Germany (59%) and Italy (54%). Moreover, the 14% drop in the UK’s fossil fuel emissions in power production through May is more pronounced than the 10% decline recorded by Europe’s power sector during the same period.
Despite the impressive growth in clean energy output, UK power producers face challenges in increasing overall electricity generation. From January through May, total UK electricity output contracted by nearly 2% compared to the same period in 2023, reaching the lowest level for this period in at least nine years.
This reduction in total electricity supply from utilities is partly offset by improved energy efficiency measures adopted by consumers and the increasing use of behind-the-meter solar generation systems in UK households and businesses.
The transition towards clean energy in the UK power sector is evident, with significant strides in reducing fossil fuel dependency and cutting emissions. The continued growth of renewable energy sources and adoption of energy efficiency measures are crucial in achieving the UK’s long-term sustainability goals.
In summary, the UK’s power producers have made commendable progress in reducing fossil fuel use and increasing clean energy generation in 2024. However, challenges remain in boosting total electricity output. As the nation prioritises clean energy and efficiency, it sets a strong example for other countries aiming to reduce their carbon footprint and transition to sustainable energy sources.