Graph of the Day: Renewables now Scotland’s largest power source

CleanTechnica

Scotland just keeps managing to surprise as, and according to independent trade body Scottish Renewables, it’s done it again, with numbers from the first half of 2014 showing that renewable energy was Scotland’s largest source of power.

The figures showed that, for the first half of 2014, renewable energy generated 32% more electricity than any other single source of power in Scotland, generating a record 10.3 TWh.

“The announcement that renewables have become Scotland’s main source of electricity is historic news for our country, and shows the investment made in the sector is helping to deliver more power than ever before to our homes and businesses,” said Niall Stuart, Chief Executive of Scottish Renewables.

In behind renewable energy was nuclear power, previously Scotland’s main source of electricity, with 7.8 TWh for the first six months. Coal followed with only 5.6 TWh, and natural gas much further behind at 1.4 TWh.

“This important milestone is good news for anyone who cares about Scotland’s economy, our energy security and our efforts to tackle climate change,” Stuart added. “Every unit of power generated from renewables means less carbon emitted from the burning of fossil fuels, decreases our reliance on imported energy and supports jobs and investment in communities across Scotland.”

Scotland has been a dominant source of renewable energy news over the past twelve months. The country’s renewable energy industry reportedly received a significant boost after the country voted “No” on its independence referendum. (Though, I’m sure there is debate on that matter.)

Earlier this month, WWF Scotland revealed that October was a “bumper month” for the Scottish wind energy sector, generating over 100% of residential electricity needs throughout the country.

“While nuclear power plants were being forced to shut because of cracks, Scotland’s wind and sunshine were quietly and cleanly helping to keep the lights on in homes across the country,” said WWF Scotland’s director, Lang Banks. “With wind power generating enough electricity to power 126% of the needs of every home in Scotland, it really was a bumper month for renewables in Scotland.”

Covering the Scottish renewable energy industry has been one of the highlights of the past year, and their contribution to the global energy’s health is undeniable.

“The renewables industry has come a long way in a short space of time, but there is still plenty of potential for further growth,” Niall Stuart concluded. “Offshore wind and marine energy are still in the early stages of development but could make a big contribution to our future energy needs if they get the right support from government. That support includes the delivery of grid connections to the islands, home to the UK’s very best wind, wave and tidal sites.”

Source: CleanTechnica. Reproduced with permission.