Wind power in 2024

The Role of Wind Energy in the UK's ESG Strategy

The UK's energy landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the urgent need to reduce carbon emissions to achieve the UK’s net zero target and to combat climate change. Recent data from the National Energy System Operator (NESO), the government’s independent body to advise on the energy transition, highlights the pivotal role of wind energy in decarbonisation.

Wind Energy's Contribution to Clean Power

The government has set a target of at least 95% of UK energy being produced from “clean” sources, including wind, solar, hydropower, bioenergy, and nuclear power, by 2030. In addition to environmental reasons, this is intended to increase energy security for the UK, lower energy prices, and stimulate and job creation across the UK in the clean energy and technology sectors.

In 2024, wind energy generated nearly 83 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity across Great Britain, making it the largest single electricity source for the first time. Wind energy also accounted for a significant portion of the 56% of electricity generated from clean sources  and has the potential to provide more than 50% of the total electricity in the UK during periods of strong wind. Wind energy therefore has significant potential to support the UK’s energy transition.

Decline in Fossil Fuel Generation

In parallel with the increase in clean energy, fossil fuel generation, particularly from coal, has declined in the UK. This is a key factor in reducing the UK's carbon footprint. In 2024, major fossil fuel power stations generated only 26% of the UK’s total electricity,   a significant drop from previous years. The closure of the UK's final coal power station in 2024 marked the end of an era and underscored the country's commitment to cleaner energy sources.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Despite the progress towards cleaner energy sources, challenges remain in the UK’s energy transition. NESO’s recent report notes a need for fossil fuel power generation, such as gas power stations, to continue to play a role in maintaining a stable and secure energy supply, especially during periods when wind and solar output are low. The government's plan to keep a reserve capacity of gas power stations highlights this need for a balanced approach to energy transition. 

There will also be a need to upscale existing infrastructure and invest in emerging technologies, such as energy storage solutions, which are expected to play a vital role in the energy transition. By storing excess energy generated during windy periods, these technologies can help ensure a reliable supply of electricity even when renewable output is low. 

The Broader Context: Government’s Clean Energy Agenda

As part of the Government’s Plan for Change, the government announced on 5 December that “Making Britain a Clean Energy Superpower” is one of the five national missions. For further insights into the government’s sustainability-related proposals, please see Government plans to make Britain a “Clean Energy Superpower”, which delves into the targets set out in this plan, including achieving at least 95% of energy generation from clean sources by 2030. This aligns with NESO’s recent report, Clean Power 2030, which, as noted above, highlights the necessity of retaining some gas-fired generations for energy security during sustained periods of low wind. 

Conclusion

The UK's progress in increasing wind energy generation and reducing reliance on fossil fuels demonstrates its commitment to ESG principles. With innovation and continued investment in clean energy technologies, the UK is moving in a positive direction to achieving its ambitious 2030 clean energy targets.  

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