We have released our monthly review of the electricity generation in Britain and the associated carbon emissions.
We have observed some continued positive trends in renewable generation.
HEADLINE STATISTICS:
- Wind energy contributed 2% less to the mix compared with October 2022. Despite this, wind energy surpassed gas and contributed more than any other energy source in October 2023, making it Britain’s primary energy source.
- Gas decreased by 9% compared to October 2022; however, imported energy rose by 8% to its highest proportion for October since 2021.
- Coal increased by 2% in October 2023 compared with October 2022, contributing the highest percentage for October since 2021.
- Solar contributed 1% less in October 2023 than in October 2022. Coupled with the 2% reduction in wind contribution, the percentage of energy delivered by zero-carbon sources was 3% lower than in October 2022.
- Despite this, the carbon intensity for October 2023 was the lowest for October in the previous three years at 138 gCO₂/kWh, likely because of lower gas usage and higher imports.
- The rolling 12-month average carbon intensity for November 2022 to October 2023 was the lowest for previous three years at 157 gCO₂/kWh and 15% lower than the previous 12-month period.
- Increasing 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)