Wind Power Breaks Records as UK Moves Away from Fossil Fuels

February 9, 2025

Wind energy provided more electricity than ever in 2024, marking a major step in the UK’s transition away from fossil fuels. New data from the National Energy System Operator (Neso) shows that wind generated nearly 83 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity across Great Britain, up from 79 TWh in 2023.

The rise in wind power contributed to a new high in clean electricity generation, with renewables and nuclear supplying 56% of Britain’s electricity in 2024. Fossil fuel power stations, primarily gas, accounted for just 26%, while imported electricity made up 16%.

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The UK government aims for fossil fuels to provide less than 5% of electricity by 2030. However, Neso has described this target as “at the limit of what is feasible.” Gas remains essential for balancing supply during low-wind periods, though investment in grid-scale battery storage, such as systems from Fluence Energy and Invinity Energy Systems, could reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Significant investments in renewable infrastructure continue to support this transition. Companies like Ørsted and Vestas Wind Systems have expanded their offshore wind projects, while Gresham House Energy Storage Fund and Harmony Energy Income Trust are backing large-scale battery storage developments. ITM Power is also advancing green hydrogen production, which could play a key role in future energy storage and grid balancing.

Recent developments further bolster the UK’s renewable energy transition. Ørsted has committed £10bn to Hornsea 3, set to be one of the world’s largest offshore wind farms. The UK government has raised its offshore wind capacity target to 50GW by 2030, with 5GW allocated to floating wind farms. Meanwhile, Harmony Energy has launched one of Europe’s largest battery storage facilities, crucial for stabilizing the grid during periods of low wind output.

Despite these advancements, challenges remain, including rising material costs and grid connection delays, which could slow down deployment.

The last UK coal power station closed in 2024, symbolizing the nation’s progress towards cleaner energy. In 2014, wind and solar supplied just 10% of electricity—now they generate a third. With carbon emissions from electricity at an all-time low of 124g CO2 per kWh, the UK’s power sector continues to move towards a sustainable future.

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