Wind generates nearly 20% of UK electricity – new Government statistics
28 June 2018
Posted by: Rob Norris
RenewableUK is highlighting new figures from the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, which show that wind generated almost a fifth of the UK’s electricity (19.1%) in the first quarter of 2018.
The UK’s onshore wind farms supplied 10.6% of the country’s power needs, while offshore produced 8.5%. Renewables overall generated 30.1% in Q1, according to the Government’s “Energy Trends” document published today.
RenewableUK’s Executive Director Emma Pinchbeck said “These new figures show that wind power alone is generating nearly 20% of the UK’s entire electricity needs. Although that’s impressive, it’s just the start. Today’s landmark report from the Government’s official advisory body, the Committee on Climate Change, warns that we need to do more to reach our clean energy targets, and it recommends deploying more onshore wind because it’s the cheapest source of energy. We hope Ministers will listen to their own experts and take swift action to lift the block on future onshore projects”.
“Today’s figures also show that wind generated more than nuclear in the first quarter of this year (19.1% compared to 17.9%). It’s good to see the Government announced a Sector Deal for the nuclear industry today, as that’s evidence of action on energy policy by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy. The offshore wind industry is also working on a Sector Deal with Government. We hope that will be agreed as soon as possible”.
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RenewableUK is the trade and professional body for the wind, wave and tidal energy industries. Formed in 1978, and with more than 400 corporate members, RenewableUK is the country’s leading renewable energy trade association. We are celebrating our 40th anniversary this year.
2. “Energy Trends” available here