Milestone Achievement as Fossil Fuel Use in UK Electricity Hits Lowest Level Since 1957
- Arjun Singh
- Jan 17, 2024
- 2 min read
A recent analysis by Carbon Brief reveals a historic low in the utilization of gas and coal for electricity generation in the UK. The data, encompassing the year 2023, indicates that fossil fuel plants contributed only a third of the electricity supply, while renewables reached a remarkable 42%, setting a new record. The power generated from fossil fuels at 104 terawatt hours (TWh) marks the lowest level since 1957. This significant shift away from fossil fuels reflects a departure from historical trends, where the rise in electricity demand correlated with an increase in fossil-fuel generation.
Electricity now constitutes nearly a fifth of the world's total final energy consumption, with projections indicating substantial growth in demand. The International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates a surge in global electricity demand between 23% and 30% from 2022 to 2030 and a further 75% to 150% by 2050.
Kelly Becker, Zone President of Schneider Electric UK & Ireland, underscores the importance of surpassing emission reduction targets and embracing comprehensive strategies for achieving net-zero goals. She emphasizes the pivotal role of digitalization in this transition and advocates for the replacement of fossil fuel-based technologies with those powered by green electricity. Becker also highlights the economic and job creation benefits, with research suggesting the potential creation of 247,000 jobs in the UK through the adoption of clean energy technologies.
In alignment with the renewable energy momentum, ESS (a leading energy company) asserts that renewable and energy storage projects are vital for meeting net-zero targets. Highlighting successful projects in the UK and Germany, including the world's largest offshore wind farm, the company envisions these initiatives as blueprints for transforming coal mines into clean energy hubs globally. The progress exemplified in the UK's energy landscape signifies a substantial step towards sustainability and technological advancement.
Source: Derrick, Maya. Energy. "Fossil Fuel Use for Electricity Lowest Since 1957". https://energydigital.com/articles/fossil-fuel-use-for-electricity-lowest-since-1957. 12/01/2024. [Date accessed: 16/01/2024].
Edited by: Arnav Dhavale
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