UK winds set new record as turbines 'take centre stage in clean energy mix'

The UK's wind turbines have smashed a new power generation record, with figures showing they produced over 22,000 megawatts for the first time on Sunday.

December 15 witnessed an impressive 22,243 megawatts (MW) of wind power being harnessed, according to the National Energy System Operator (Neso), outstripping the previous record of 21,998MW set on January 10, 2023. This milestone achievement aligns with the Government's recent announcement of their ambition to decarbonise Britain's electricity grid by 2030, aiming for at least 95% low-carbon power through significant expansion of offshore and onshore wind capacity.

Reacting to this development, RenewableUK's director of future electricity systems, Barnaby Wharton, said: "Last week’s Clean Power 2030 Action Plan set out specific targets for wind and solar farms, so it’s fantastic to see wind energy breaking records and once again taking centre stage in our modern clean energy mix, keeping Britain powered up at the coldest, darkest time of the year and strengthening our energy security."

He added, "We know a system dominated by wind and solar is the lowest cost for bill payers, and we look forward to working with Government now that it has a clear road map to achieving this."