Renewable Energy Sources in UK Overtakes Fossil Fuel in 2019

Renewable power sources in Britain during 2019, overtake fossil fuel-based electricity generation for the first time.

The milestone comes in 2019 – the mid-point between 1990 and 2050 – the year in which the UK has committed to achieving at least a 100 per cent reduction in emissions based on 1990 levels.

UK’s National Grid in a statement said, “2019 was the cleanest year on record for Britain as, for the first time, the amount of zero-carbon power outstripped that from fossil fuels for a full twelve months”. 

Data released by National Grid shows a combination of wind farms, solar and nuclear energy, alongside energy imported by subsea interconnectors, delivered 48.5 per cent of Britain’s electricity in 2019 compared to 43 per cent generated by fossil fuels. The remaining 8.5 per cent was generated by biomass.

“As we enter a new decade, this truly is a historic moment and an opportunity to reflect on how much has been achieved. At National Grid, we know we have a critical role in the acceleration towards a cleaner future and are committed to playing our part in delivering a safe and secure energy system that works for all,” said National Grid CEO John Pettigrew in a statement.