In the United Kingdom, over the last 12 months from September 2024 to August 2025, electricity consumption has displayed a significant reliance on low-carbon sources, comprising more than half of the total energy mix, specifically 57%. Within this low-carbon category, wind energy contributes around a quarter, followed by nuclear at about 12%, and biofuels also adding over 12%. Solar and hydropower combined make up a smaller yet crucial fraction of clean electricity, with solar contributing around 5% and hydropower adding close to 2%. Fossil energy remains a sizeable part of the mix, accounting for almost a third of the electricity consumption, with the majority being supplied by gas. Net imports deliver just under 10% of the total electricity, emphasizing the UK's continued engagement with external energy sources.
Is Electricity Growing in United Kingdom?
The current trend in the United Kingdom indicates a worrisome stagnation in electricity consumption, with the 2025 figures showing a decrease from historical highs. At 4451 kWh per person, the latest numbers reveal a significant decline compared to the peak of 6711 kWh per person back in 2005, a reduction of 2260 kWh per person. Low-carbon electricity generation likewise faces challenges, having fallen to 2543 kWh per person from a previous record of 2744 kWh per person in 2020, showcasing a reduction of 201 kWh per person. This downward trend counters the growing call for more electricity to meet future demands posed by global transitions and technological advancements like electrification and AI growth, underscoring the urgency for enhanced energy solutions.
Suggestions
To bolster its low-carbon electricity generation, the UK should focus on expanding its already significant nuclear and wind power capacity while exploring lessons from regions excelling in these sectors. Countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear energy accounts for over sixty percent of electricity generation, offer vital insights into maximizing nuclear power potential. For wind energy, the UK could study models from Denmark and several US states, including Iowa and South Dakota, where wind provides a substantial percentage of electricity. A further opportunity lies in solar energy expansion; the UK can explore successful examples from Greece and other countries boasting notable solar contributions to the electricity grid. By harnessing these strategies, the UK can accelerate the transition towards a greener, more sustainable energy future while reducing dependence on fossil fuels that contribute to climate change and pollution.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity generation in the UK reveals a series of dynamic changes over the years. In the 1980s and early 1990s, the country experienced substantial increments in nuclear energy output, especially between 1984 and 1993, marking an era of growth for nuclear power. However, entering the 21st century, nuclear production faced significant setbacks, with notable declines beginning in 2000 and continuing with additional sharp reductions seen in the years 2004, 2007, 2008, 2019, and most recently in 2023. Conversely, the late 2010s and early 2020s spotlighted the ascent of wind energy, evidenced by consistent annual increases in wind-generated electricity, albeit interrupted by minor deviations such as 2021's drop. The overall trend over these decades underscores both the potential and challenges of transitioning to a low-carbon future, mandating renewed efforts in sustaining and growing these clean energy sources.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.