
Data from: National Energy System Operator
2024 was a pivotal year for the UK’s energy transition, marking the end of coal-powered electricity generation and the dominance of wind energy as the main source of power. On 30 September, the Ratcliffe Power Station permanently shut down, leaving coal with a marginal share of 0.6% in the energy mix. This milestone underscores the nation’s commitment to achieving a net-zero energy system.
«Starting the new year with a record-breaking annual achievement in wind power is fantastic,» said Barnaby Wharton, Director of Future Electricity Systems at RenewableUK. According to data published by the National Energy System Operator (NESO), wind power outperformed gas for the first time in history, accounting for 30% of total generation in 2024, up from 28% in the previous year. By contrast, gas contributed 26.3%, highlighting the rapid rise of renewables.
A record-breaking year for renewables
The UK achieved unprecedented results in renewable energy generation and carbon intensity reduction in 2024:
- An annual average of 125 g CO2/kWh, the lowest ever recorded.
- Renewables accounted for 58% of total electricity, with wind providing 30%, nuclear 14%, and other renewable sources 13.8%.
- December, the windiest month of the year, saw 38.9% of electricity generated from wind, with a record-breaking 22,523 MW achieved on 18 December.
Wharton emphasised that these milestones solidify wind power as the UK’s most significant clean energy source. “To meet the government’s 2030 clean energy target, we need to maximise new capacity in each annual Contracts for Difference auction across all renewable sources,” he added.
These achievements were complemented by the growing contributions of solar and biomass energy, which played crucial roles in replacing coal and reducing dependence on gas. As a result, the UK is cementing its position as a global leader in the energy transition.

Data from: National Energy System Operator
Managing demand and future challenges
Electricity consumption in 2024 reflected seasonal variations and unique challenges, such as the spikes in demand during Euro 2024, which were effectively managed using a combination of hydropower and battery storage. During the final between England and Spain, for example, demand surged by 1.3 GW at half-time, met with 700 MW of hydropower and 400 MW of battery storage.
Seasonal fluctuations were also evident, with the annual peak demand of 45,096 MW recorded on 15 January at 5:30 pm, and the annual low of 15,074 MW occurring on 22 August at 3:30 am. These trends highlight the need for greater system flexibility to accommodate such changes.
«To make the most of this clean energy, we also need to add more flexibility to the system,» Wharton emphasised. This includes expanding projects such as floating offshore wind, large-scale energy storage, and green hydrogen, all essential for maintaining the UK’s position as a global clean energy leader.
Looking ahead to 2025
With a system generating 51% of its electricity from carbon-free sources in 2024, the UK demonstrates that energy transition is not only achievable but necessary. Technological advancements in the wind sector and innovations in energy storage will further consolidate the nation’s leadership in sustainability.
«The UK is paving the way towards a clean and renewable future,» Wharton concluded. To achieve a fully clean energy system by 2030, maintaining the current pace of growth and adopting new technologies will be crucial.
These accomplishments mark a turning point for the UK’s energy sector, positioning the country as a global frontrunner in the race towards net-zero emissions.
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