The UK renewable energy sector saw a historical moment as wind power provided 32.4 per cent of the UK’s energy in the first quarter of 2023, compared to 31.7 per cent for gas.
The UK renewable boom
In total, wind power contributed 24TWh to Britain’s electricity mix in 2023’s first quarter, making it the nation’s biggest source of energy. Renewable energy sources accounted for 42 per cent of the UK’s overall electricity, fossil fuels accounted for 33 per cent, and the remaining 25 per cent came from nuclear sources and imports.
These record figures come as no surprise since the UK consolidated its position as world leaders in offshore wind. In total, the UK now has more than 11,000 onshore and offshore wind turbines with several wind energy projects in the pipeline. It’s the UK’s windy climate and gusty coastal conditions that make it an ideal location for wind power, and seven of the world’s ten biggest wind farms are situated in the UK. Some of the UK’s most notable projects include Shetland, Dogger Bank, Walney, the Erebus floating offshore wind farm, and Hornsea, which is the world’s largest wind farm located 55 miles off the coast of Yorkshire.
This record moment for the UK wind power market is a result of a 3 per cent rise in power derived from wind, compared with figures one year prior, and a 14 per cent increase in wind capacity year-on-year. An additional fall in reliance on gas and fossil fuels has contributed to the cause.
What’s next for wind?
As the government seeks to decarbonise the UK’s energy system in the run-up to 2035, wind power expansion alongside a transition away from traditional fossil fuels will be a key contributor to net zero.
However, a 2015 conservative planning law allowing a single opponent to block wind farm developments threatens to hinder the progress being made within the renewable sector. This is concerning since the likelihood of local residents blocking wind farm developments over concerns of aesthetics and disruptive construction is very high. Communication and negotiation between governments, local communities, and renewable energy developers is essential to secure the UK’s net zero target.
