For the first time ever, renewable energy has generated more of the United Kingdom’s electricity than coal. A report published by the UK government stated that electricity from renewable sources increased to a record high of 25 percent in the second quarter of 2015. These statistics come hot on the heels of an announcement that Conservative ministers plan to cut financing for solar and other renewable energies.
Favorable Conditions
The increase in output from renewable sources can be attributed to favorable weather conditions—such as more sunny days, higher wind speeds and rainfall—and the installation of more solar panels and wind turbines. Wind generation increased 65 percent while solar energy more than doubled since 2014, according to the report.
Government Support
Government financing of renewable energy solutions directly led to the current outcome, according to a spokeswoman for the Department of Energy and Climate Change. “Government support has driven down the cost of renewable energy significantly and these statistics show that has successfully enabled renewables to compete with other technologies,” she said.
Renewable Financing Under Threat
The UK’s favorable renewable energy situation is under threat from the new Conservative government. Ministers have argued that subsidies and other financing options have risen too fast and needed to be cut. Ministers announced plans to reduce subsidies for solar power by 87 percent and completely terminate support for offshore wind farms. Al Gore has criticized the government for its decision. Renewable energy proponents argue cutting funding now will cripple the industry in its infancy.
Instead of solar and wind power, ministers are looking to shale gas and nuclear energy solutions. However, nuclear energy is still the least popular of the alternative energy options while shale fracking could have adverse environmental consequences. If the UK wants to keep its carbon footprint low, government officials and energy proponents will have to find a compromise that works best for UK taxpayers.
Natalie Benoy is a renewable energy writer reporter for Fusion 360, an SEO and content marketing agency. Information provided by Elements Capital Group. Follow on Twitter
Favorable Conditions
The increase in output from renewable sources can be attributed to favorable weather conditions—such as more sunny days, higher wind speeds and rainfall—and the installation of more solar panels and wind turbines. Wind generation increased 65 percent while solar energy more than doubled since 2014, according to the report.
Government Support
Government financing of renewable energy solutions directly led to the current outcome, according to a spokeswoman for the Department of Energy and Climate Change. “Government support has driven down the cost of renewable energy significantly and these statistics show that has successfully enabled renewables to compete with other technologies,” she said.
Renewable Financing Under Threat
The UK’s favorable renewable energy situation is under threat from the new Conservative government. Ministers have argued that subsidies and other financing options have risen too fast and needed to be cut. Ministers announced plans to reduce subsidies for solar power by 87 percent and completely terminate support for offshore wind farms. Al Gore has criticized the government for its decision. Renewable energy proponents argue cutting funding now will cripple the industry in its infancy.
Instead of solar and wind power, ministers are looking to shale gas and nuclear energy solutions. However, nuclear energy is still the least popular of the alternative energy options while shale fracking could have adverse environmental consequences. If the UK wants to keep its carbon footprint low, government officials and energy proponents will have to find a compromise that works best for UK taxpayers.
Natalie Benoy is a renewable energy writer reporter for Fusion 360, an SEO and content marketing agency. Information provided by Elements Capital Group. Follow on Twitter