Wind blows renewable power generation records away

0

An exceptionally windy start to the year blew away UK renewable power generation records, according to consultancy EnAppSys.

The firm calculates that renewables generated 35.4TWh of power during the first quarter, amounting to 44.6 per cent of total generation. That means renewable generation, up from 27.2TWh year on year, exceeded gas and coal combined for the first time.

After renewables’ contribution to the mix, some 29.1 per cent of power came via gas-fired plants, 15.3 per cent from nuclear plants, 7.3 per cent from power imports and 3.7 per cent from coal plants.

EnAppSys director Paul Verrill said the figures represent “a significant milestone for Britain’s power industry”.

Meanwhile, coronavirus lockdown measures will continue to soften demand and power prices, according to the firm.

“The COVID-19 outbreak had only a slight impact on overall demand in Q1 as the ‘stay at home’ requirements only came into force towards the end of March. We expect a greater impact in Q2 – especially if the lockdown continues until the end of June,” said Verrill.

Related stories:

Western Link failure sees National Grid pay £31m to turn off wind farms

National Grid mulls footroom options as demand drops

Coronavirus and the power system: Keep calm and put the kettle on

Fintan Slye: Inertia has been taken for granted, it will become much more important

National Grid outlines plans to go 100 per cent renewables by 2025

Click here to see if you qualify for a free subscription to the print magazine, or to renew.

Follow us at @EnergystMedia. For regular bulletins, sign up for the free newsletter.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here