In the UK, a record amount of wind energy was produced last year. More resources come from renewable and nuclear sources than from gas and coal.
Replacing fossil fuels with green energy is the main way to combat the effects of climate change. Energy sources such as wind and sun are significantly cheaper, so they should lead to lower bills in the long run, the BBC writes.
According to the National Electricity Grid System Operator (ESO), gas was the most important source of electricity in the UK in 2022, but the importance of wind turbines has increased significantly. 48.5% of all electricity comes from renewable and nuclear sources, compared to 40% from gas and coal.
On one day in November 2022, wind turbines produced more than 70% of electricity – about 20 GW. That’s enough power to heat 1,700 homes for a year. On December 30, the record was broken when wind turbines generated 20.9 GW.
The use of coal continued to decline. In 2022, it generated only 1.5% of energy, compared to 43% in 2012.
The United Kingdom has excellent prospects for developing the offshore wind farm sector, in particular, due to the restrictions imposed in 2015 on the installation of onshore wind turbines. But the government also promises to invest in the production of fossil fuels and modernize the energy system.
Last year, the first new coal mine was approved in 30 years, despite concerns about environmental impacts. A new licensing phase has begun for companies that could search for oil and gas in the North Sea.
Energy supply and pricing have been severely affected by the war in Ukraine, which has led to the imposition of sanctions on Russia – the most important gas supplier for Europe. Countries, including Germany, Spain, Italy, the USA, have increased their renewable energy capacity.