The amount of zero-carbon energy entering the UK grid has notched up another new record, according to the Electricity System Operator arm of National Grid PLC (LSE:NG.), breaking the previous record set last week.
National Grid ESO said 87.6% of the UK’s electricity came from zero carbon generators such as wind and solar power between 4:30am and 5am.
Zero carbon energy is also generated by nuclear stations, of which there are six in the UK operated by EDF.
Another record! The percentage of zero carbon electricity generated onto the grid was hit #Today. New record of 87.6%
— National Grid ESO (@NationalGridESO) January 4, 2023
The previous record was hit on 30 December, when 87.2% of generation came from zero-carbon sources, while UK wind power also topped 20.91GW - its highest-ever output.
“We are getting ever closer to 100% zero carbon operation,” said National Grid.
National Grid ESO has previously suggested that the UK would see periods of 100% zero-carbon energy generation by 2025, with the aim of a fully carbon free system a decade after that.
A cross-party committee of MPs also today called on the government to encourage a more rapid roll-out of onshore windfarms and for solar panels to be required on new buildings as part of efforts needed to reduce climate-heating emissions and ensure energy security.
The environmental audit committee also urged the government to set a date to end the licensing of new oil and gas fields.