Electricity in United Kingdom in 2023

As of 2023, the United Kingdom's electricity consumption is significantly driven by low-carbon energy sources. Over half of the electricity comes from low-carbon, clean sources such as wind, nuclear, solar, and hydropower. Specifically, wind energy is the largest single low-carbon source, contributing around a quarter of the total electricity. Nuclear energy also plays a vital role, providing almost 13%, while biofuels, solar, and hydropower collectively account for around 16%. On the other side, fossil fuels still make up about 37% of the electricity mix, with natural gas being the dominant fossil fuel, supplying nearly 35%. Coal’s share has diminished drastically, contributing close to none at just over 1%. Additionally, net imports of electricity cover roughly 7.4% of the consumption.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, the United Kingdom should focus on expanding its existing nuclear and wind capacities. Both of these technologies are already sizable contributors to the country's electricity mix and have proven to be effective. From the experience of other countries, there's much to learn, especially in significantly increasing the share of nuclear energy. For example, France generates an impressive 65% of its electricity from nuclear, while Slovakia and Ukraine achieve 62% and 55%, respectively. Similarly, Denmark sets a prime example in wind energy, producing 53% of its electricity from wind alone. By further investing in nuclear and wind, and targeting similar levels of generation, the UK can significantly cut down its reliance on fossil fuels, which contribute to climate change and air pollution.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity in the UK highlights significant fluctuations, especially in nuclear energy generation. In the 1980s, there was a notable increase in nuclear output, with increments of around 10 TWh in 1984 and 7.1 TWh in 1985. The growth continued through the late 80s and early 90s, with significant increases in 1988, 1989, and 1993. However, the turn of the century saw a decline, with sharp decreases in 2000, 2004, 2007, and 2008. A recovery occurred in 2009 with a significant rise of 16.6 TWh, but it was again followed by declines in subsequent years. Wind energy has shown a more consistent upward trend, particularly from 2013 onwards, with substantial increases in 2017 and 2022. Despite some fluctuations, the overall trajectory for wind has been positive, underpinning its growing importance in the UK's low-carbon electricity generation mix.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources