- In July 2024, the primary source of electricity in Britain was gas, accounting for approximately a quarter of the energy mix (24%), which is 6% less than for July in the previous year. Wind power saw an 8% decrease from its contributions in July 2023, contributing 21% of the mix; however, its proportion was higher than in July 2021 and 2022. Conversely, solar energy increased by 2% in July 2024 compared to July 2023, contributing 9% of the energy mix, marking its highest share for July in the past four years.
- Imports of electricity significantly increased compared to July 2023, accounting for around one-fifth of the electricity mix, which is 7% higher than the previous year. Additionally, contributions from biomass increased by 2% over July 2023, making up 7% of the mix. Both nuclear and coal saw a 1% increase in their respective proportions of Britain's electricity mix compared to July 2023, with nuclear reaching its highest level for July in past four years at 16%, and coal contributing 1% to the mix.
- Contributions from hydro and storage remained consistent with July 2023, each delivering 1% of Britain’s electricity mix.
- Zero-carbon sources accounted for less than half of the electricity generation in July 2024 (47%), which is 5% lower than the previous year. However, this marks the second-highest proportion of renewables delivered in July in the last four years. The carbon intensity of Britain's electricity generation in July 2024 was 114gCO₂/kWh, which is 20% lower than in July 2023 and the lowest for July in the past four years. It is important to note that the increased reliance on imports likely influenced this figure.
- The rolling 12-month average carbon intensity remains significantly lower than the previous 12-month period at 133gCO₂/kWh. The rolling 12-month average proportion of electricity delivered by zero-carbon sources is the highest of the last four years at 51%, which is 3% higher than the previous 12-month period.
- Increasing electricity generation from renewable sources can help achieve our Net-Zero ambitions, ensure energy security, and decrease reliance on imports.
Monthly Statistics
12-Month Rolling (Average) Statistics
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Data source: National Grid ESO 2024 (https://www.nationalgrideso.com/electricity-explained/electricity-and-me/great-britains-monthly-electricity-stats)