UK wind power output reached a record on Sunday, sending exports to France to their highest level in more than a year. It was just days ago that Europe’s electricity market faced a severe challenge as its wind turbines more or less stopped spinning in the calm weather. Such big swings in output shows the challenges utilities and governments have to contend with more often as intermittent sources make up a growing share of the power mix.
UK wind power output peaked at more than 22 gigawatts, breaking a December 2023 record, according to NESO data at 6:30 p.m. in London. Overnight exports to France were the highest since March 2023. Wind farms were still generating more than 60% of the nation’s power on Monday morning, according to NESO data.
The United Kingdom’s wind power generation has reached unprecedented levels, bolstered by favorable weather conditions and increased capacity. In December 2024, wind energy accounted for over 31% of the UK’s electricity generation, making it the leading renewable source. This surge enabled the UK to export significant volumes of electricity, particularly to France, through undersea interconnectors. Exports to France increased as the country faced challenges in its nuclear power sector, leading to a higher reliance on imported energy.
Overall, the UK’s commitment to renewable energy is not only helping to reduce emissions domestically but is also strengthening energy security across Europe by acting as a net exporter during critical times.
