Zero-carbon power surpassed fossil fuels in 2019
2019 was the ‘cleanest year on record’ for the UK as the amount of zero-carbon power outstripped that sourced from fossil fuels for a full 12 months, according to the National Grid.
In a statement, the organisation said the historic milestone comes as the UK enters the mid-point between 1990 and 2050 – the year in which the UK has pledged to achieve a 100% reduction in emissions, based on 1980 levels.
According to data released by National Grid, a combination of wind farms, solar and nuclear energy, as well as energy imported by subsea interconnectors, delivered 48.5% of the UK’s electricity in 2019 compared to 43% generated by fossil fuels. The remaining 8.5% was generated by biomass, such as wood pellets.
“As we enter a new decade, this truly is a historic moment and an opportunity to reflect on how much has been achieved,” said National Grid CEO, John Pettigrew. “At National Grid, we know we have a critical role in the acceleration towards a cleaner future and are committed to playing our part in delivering a safe and secure energy system that works for all.”
In a statement, the organisation said the historic milestone comes as the UK enters the mid-point between 1990 and 2050 – the year in which the UK has pledged to achieve a 100% reduction in emissions, based on 1980 levels.
According to data released by National Grid, a combination of wind farms, solar and nuclear energy, as well as energy imported by subsea interconnectors, delivered 48.5% of the UK’s electricity in 2019 compared to 43% generated by fossil fuels. The remaining 8.5% was generated by biomass, such as wood pellets.
“As we enter a new decade, this truly is a historic moment and an opportunity to reflect on how much has been achieved,” said National Grid CEO, John Pettigrew. “At National Grid, we know we have a critical role in the acceleration towards a cleaner future and are committed to playing our part in delivering a safe and secure energy system that works for all.”
