Britain's Electricity Generation - October 2024

18 November 2024

In October 2024, wind was the leading source of electricity generation in Britain, accounting for 31% of the electricity mix. Despite this, wind’s contribution was the lowest for any October in the past four years, down 3% from October 2023 and 5% from October 2022. Gas followed closely, contributing 30% to the electricity mix, which, while its second-lowest for October in the past four years, was still 3% higher than in October 2023.

Biomass contributions increased by 2%, reaching 8% of the mix, the highest for October in the past four years. Solar energy provided 4% of the mix, up 1% from October 2023.

Nuclear and hydro both saw a 1% decrease in their contributions, delivering 13% and 2% of the electricity mix, respectively. Imports remained steady, contributing 11%, the same as in October 2023.

October 2024 was notable for having zero coal in Britain’s electricity generation, following the closure of the Ratcliffe power plant, the UK’s last coal-fired station. This is a significant achievement, considering coal has provided electricity in the UK for over 140 years and accounted for nearly 40% of the UK’s electricity generation in 2012.

Zero-carbon sources made up 51% of Britain’s electricity generation in October 2024, the lowest for any October in the past four years, but only 1% below the rolling 12-month average of 52%. The carbon intensity of electricity generation in October 2024 was 138gCO₂/kWh, consistent with October 2023. The rolling 12-month average carbon intensity of 123gCO₂/kWh is 22% lower than the previous 12-month period, marking the lowest level in the past four years as the grid continues to decarbonise.

Increasing the electricity generation from renewable sources can help achieve our net-zero ambitions, ensure energy security, and decrease reliance on imports.

Monthly Statistics

To view our interactive renewables map, click here