In the period from July 2024 to June 2025, the electricity consumption landscape in the United Kingdom is prominently characterized by a significant reliance on low-carbon sources. More than half, specifically about 59%, of the electricity comes from low-carbon sources, highlighting the UK's steadfast commitment to cleaner and more sustainable energy production. Among these, wind energy takes the lead at approximately 26%, followed by nuclear energy at roughly 13%, and biofuels contributing around 12%. Complementing these sources are solar and hydropower, which add up to nearly 7% combined. In contrast, fossil fuel sources make up about 31% of the total electricity consumed, with gas accounting for the majority of this category at nearly 29%. Net imports also play a part in meeting the UK's electricity needs, comprising around 10% of the consumption mix.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in United Kingdom?
Despite the noticeable presence of low-carbon electricity generation, the UK's overall electricity consumption per person has witnessed a concerning decrease from the historical high in 2005. The latest figures for 2025 indicate a consumption of 4462 kWh per person, a stark decline of 2250 kWh compared to the 2005 peak. Similarly, the low-carbon electricity generation in 2025 stands at 2620 kWh per person, marking a reduction of 116 kWh compared to its previous record in 2020. Such a downturn suggests a potential stagnation in the drive for further sustainable energy utilization, highlighting the need for reinvigorated efforts to elevate both overall electricity consumption and its clean component, to cater to evolving and future demands particularly from the electrification of various sectors and the advancements in AI.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, the United Kingdom can focus on expanding existing nuclear and wind energy capacities, given their significant contributions to current electricity generation. Reflecting on successful regions, the UK could draw inspiration from countries like France, where nuclear energy constitutes a substantial 70% of its electricity generation. For wind energy, the UK might look at Denmark and Iowa, with wind making up 59% and 60% of their electricity generation, respectively. Moreover, enhancing solar capacity could also complement the existing mix; regions such as Nevada and Lebanon demonstrate high solar generation, contributing 33% and 31%, respectively. These examples underline the potential gains from both nuclear and solar expansions in achieving greater sustainability and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, which are notorious for their adverse environmental impacts.
History
In the history of low-carbon electricity generation in the UK, significant developments have been centered around nuclear and wind energy. In the late 1980s, especially with notable increases in 1984 and 1988, nuclear energy saw significant growth with double-digit TWh increments. However, there were subsequent declines in nuclear generation in the early 2000s and late 2000s, indicating inconsistency which should be critically assessed for future reliability. Meanwhile, wind energy has consistently grown since 2013, with notable surges especially in 2017 and 2022. These historical trends underscore the importance of maintaining steady growth in sustainable energy sources to secure a robust and resilient electricity generation framework for the future.
