London, May 10 - During the first quarter of 2023, wind power accounted for almost a third (32.4%) of the electricity supplied in the UK, surpassing gas which contributed 31.7%. This marks the first instance where wind power has dominated the electricity supply during any quarter in the country's grid history.
The UK's strategic focus on expanding wind energy generation aligns with its commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050 and reducing dependence on costly imported energy sources, especially after disruptions caused by Russia's actions in Ukraine.
Within this three-month period, wind turbines generated a substantial 24 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity, equivalent to the energy needed to charge over 300 million Tesla Model Y electric cars. The wind power output saw a 3% increase compared to the same quarter in the previous year, while gas-powered generation declined by 5%.
In this quarter, nearly 42% of the UK's electricity originated from renewable sources such as wind, solar, biomass, and hydro. Fossil fuels, including gas and coal, contributed to 33% of the energy supply, while the remaining share came from imports and the country's diminishing nuclear facilities.
The surge in wind power's contribution is a notable achievement, signifying a substantial step towards a greener and more sustainable energy landscape for the UK. This shift towards renewables, particularly wind power, not only aids the nation's pursuit of environmental goals but also strengthens its energy security, reducing reliance on external sources. It's a victory for humanity in the quest for cleaner energy and a healthier planet.
Source: Drax Electric. "Wind powers Britain more than gas for first time". https://www.drax.com/press_release/wind-powers-britain-more-than-gas-for-first-time/. 10 May 2023. [Accessed: 11 May 2023].
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