We have released our monthly review of the electricity generation in Britain and the associated carbon emissions.
HEADLINE STATISTICS:
- Gas and nuclear in the energy mix fell by 7% and 1%, respectively, from November 2022 compared with November 2023. Conversely, imported energy and coal rose by 7% and 1%, respectively, to their highest proportions for November since 2021.
- Solar energy saw a 1% increase in its contribution to the mix in November 2023 compared to November 2022. However, Wind energy’s contribution decreased by 3% compared with November 2022, delivering 31% of electricity generation in November 2023. Total energy contributions from zero-carbon sources fell to 47%, the lowest for November since 2021.
- Despite this, the carbon intensity for November 2023 was the lowest for November in the previous three years at 161 gCO₂/kWh, likely because of lower gas usage, higher imports and a slight rise in solar energy.
- The rolling 12-month average carbon intensity for December 2022 to November 2023 was the lowest for previous three years at 156 gCO₂/kWh and 15% lower than the preceding 12-month period.
- Boosting the electricity generation delivered by renewables can help us achieve Net-Zero ambitions, ensure energy security and decrease reliance on imports.
Data source: National Grid ESO 2023 (https://www.nationalgrideso.com/electricity-explained/electricity-and-me/great-britains-monthly-electricity-stats)