UK reveals soaring wind power capacity records

The Energy Statistics report showed that the supply of wind energy , hydro and other renewables increased by 23.1 percent in the third quarter year-on-year.

Furthermore, wind energy was shown to be the massive growth area, with this form of renewable energy rising by 36.9 percent year-on-year.

"Today’s results have two important implications: we are now within reach of 10 percent of electricity from renewables, having had around 2 percent a decade ago. The renewables industry has managed to deliver a five fold increase in actual units delivered to consumers since 2001," said Alex Murley, RenewableUK head of technical affairs.

The representative added that these new figures provide optimism that the 2020 target of sourcing 15 percent of energy from renewables will be met.

Recently, it was revealed that the majority of young Britons supported green energy, which could also help future targets be met.

Alex Murley, RenewableUK Head of Technical Affairs, said: "Today’s results have two important implications: we are now within reach of 10% of electricity from renewables, having had around 2% a decade ago. The renewables industry has managed to deliver a five fold increase in actual units delivered to consumers since 2001. Secondly, this gives us confidence that, with the right policy support, we can deliver on our 2020 targets. There are no technological barriers to having a third of our electricity from renewables in the next 10 years – it is perfectly doable."

Industry statistics show that there are currently 8,617 megawatts (MW) of wind farm capacity either in construction or with planning permits around the UK scheduled to go on stream within the next 24 to 36 months. Together with the 5,194 MW of operational capacity this should provide around 37 terrawatt/hours per year, which will push the total contribution from all renewables above that of nuclear.

It will also mean that within the same period onshore wind is set to become a major electricity contributor, providing around 6% to 7% of the UK’s net electricity consumption.

"We have been forecasting that wind will make an important contribution to the UK’s electricity supply within a comparatively short time frame. Wind is also set to provide not just clean electricity, but the jobs and the economic regeneration this country needs. Onshore the British Isles have the best wind resource in Europe, while offshore we are world-leaders. Building on these undeniable facts could transform the UK into a regional renewable energy powerhouse," concluded Murley.

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