Wind energy output hits record levels in 2015

Industry body RenewableUK has hailed figures from National Grid that show wind generation supplied its largest ever amount of clean electricity to Britain in 2015.

Wind power set new weekly, monthly, quarterly and annual records, generating 11 per cent of the UK’s electricity, up from 9.5 per cent in the previous year.

On and offshore wind provided enough electricity to meet the annual needs of more than 8.25 million homes – more than 30 per cent of UK households – up from 6.7 million homes in 2014.

RenewableUK, the trade body for the clean energy industry, said that December saw a new monthly record set, with wind suppling 17 per cent of Britain’s electricity demand “at a time of the year when it’s needed most”. The previous monthly record of 14 per cent was set last ­January.

Dr Gordon Edge, policy director at RenewableUK, said “This is a great way to start the new year – the wind industry can be proud … We’ve had a bumper harvest thanks to increased deployment and superb wind speeds.

“It also demonstrates why the government should continue to support wind energy, as we’re delivering on our commitment to keep Britain powered up.”