Wind power generation in Great Britain reached a record 29.2TWh this year, marking a significant step forward in reducing emissions and expanding renewable energy.
The increase was driven by sustained high wind speeds during winter storms, enabling wind to play a larger role in meeting electricity demand and supporting exports.
Total renewable generation rose to 40.3TWh, up 20% year-on-year, accounting for 52% of overall electricity supply and reinforcing the shift towards a low-carbon energy system.
Higher wind output contributed to lower wholesale prices during peak generation periods, while reducing reliance on fossil fuels and cutting carbon emissions.
However, grid constraints limited the full potential of renewables, with 3.6TWh of wind generation curtailed due to insufficient transmission capacity.
Phil Hewitt, Director at Montel EnAppSys, said: “Despite the good news of higher wind output, curtailment remained a key feature of the system, reflecting transmission constraints between northern generation and southern demand centres.
“While renewable deployment must continue in order to meet the government’s 2030 clean power targets, the continual curtailment of wind is already pushing the narrative beyond the need for more renewables, focusing more on the effective siting of generation and need for greater grid investment and planning.
“It is hoped that NESO’s Strategic Spatial Energy Plan (SSEP) due to be published this summer should provide some direction in this regard, showing the way forwards for a more efficient energy transition.”
Gas generation fell 16% year-on-year but continued to provide system flexibility, accounting for 29% of supply during the quarter.
The findings highlight the need for grid investment and smarter planning to fully realise renewable potential.
Copyright © 2026 Energy Live News LtdELN