Fossil Fuel Electricity Plummets to Lowest Levels since 1957
Step aside, fossil fuels! The stage is now set for renewables to take centre stage as electricity generated from fossil fuels hits its lowest point in 66 years. Since its peak in 2008, there’s been a remarkable two-thirds drop, thanks in part to the rapid expansion of renewable energy sources and a dip in electricity demand.
In this new energy landscape, low carbon sources reign supreme, constituting a whopping 56% of electricity generation. Renewables lead the charge at 43%, followed by nuclear power at 13%, with the remainder sourced from imports and other eco-friendly options like waste incineration. Fossil fuels, once the heavyweight champion, now comprise just 33% of the mix, with gas at 31% and coal limping in at a mere 1%.
Despite a surge in new grid connections, solar PV only saw a modest 2% increase in electricity generation in 2023, attributed in part to average sunshine hours compared to the unusually sunny 2022 in the UK.
Germany boasts renewable electricity generation at a staggering 55%, while Poland shatters records with renewables accounting for 26% of its energy mix, up from 19.3% the previous year.
If you’re ready to make the switch to renewable energy, contact the Norcroft Energy team today and we can discuss your options.