The UK celebrated a renewable energy milestone this month, as energy from renewable sources topped fossil fuels for the first time since the Industrial Revolution.
Research showed that more homes and businesses across the UK were powered by renewable energy during the third quarter of 2019, setting a new record for clean energy.
This is the first time that fossil fuels have been overtaken by energy sources such as solar and wind farms. The National Grid predicted that 2019 would be the first year that zero-carbon energy (such as renewables) would overtake the use of gas and coal-fired power.
A renewable energy milestone
If you consider the fact that just a decade ago, four-fifths of the UK’s power was gas and coal, the milestone is a huge one. The recent study has shown that coal-fired power now makes up less than 1% of the power we’ve generated.
So how did the UK achieve such an important stride towards clean energy this year? Well, as much as we champion solar energy, it was wind power that nudged the industry to overtake fossil fuels!
A smattering of new offshore windfarms completed during 2019 pushed Britain towards a new chapter in energy.
In preparation for the ban from 2025, coal plants across the UK are closing down. We expect to see just four remaining by the start of next year, and wind power now accounts for 20% of the UK’s electricity. Solar panels contribute around 6% of the nation’s power, and we hope to see the figure continue to rise over the coming years.
Solar power
Solar power is a popular choice for home and business owners, making the transition to clean energy smooth and helping to reduce rising energy costs. Battery storage products store solar energy and use it to power homes after dark. That means solar owners can optimise their clean energy and make use of it intelligently.
Kwasi Kwarteng, the minister for energy and clean growth, said the renewables record is “yet another milestone on our path towards ending our contribution to climate change altogether by 2050”.
We’re thrilled that the UK is moving towards green energy to help meet climate goals, and it’s also great news for energy bills.
Contact our award-winning team today for your free solar or battery storage survey, and find out how you can generate your own clean energy. Call 01803 732946 or email us at [email protected]