Records Shattered: The Transition to Renewable Energy in Britain and Germany
Recent data released on Thursday indicates that both Britain and Germany have achieved their cleanest electricity generation metrics thus far, with renewable sources reaching unprecedented levels over the past year.
Germany’s Renewables Surge
In Germany, renewable resources such as wind and solar constituted a remarkable 59% of total electricity generation, marking an increase from 56% in the prior year. This growth coincides with 2024 being a landmark year as it registered as the first without nuclear power production. Wind energy remained dominant, contributing nearly one-third (31.9%) of overall power generation. Meanwhile, coal usage dipped below 23%, down from 26% in 2023.
The utilization of natural gas saw a rise, accounting for approximately 13.2%—up from just over 8.6%. The nation’s ambitious target aims for renewable sources to comprise at least 80% by the year 2030 while planning a complete phase-out of coal operations by 2035.
Although Germany generated around 431.7 terawatt-hours (TWh) in total electricity during this period—a decrease compared to previous years—the import ratio ascended to about 13.8%, whereas exports dropped significantly to 10%.
The Shift in Britain’s Energy Landscape
Turning our focus to Britain, fossil fuels including oil and gas contributed about 29% toward its total electrical output for last year—with renewables firmly holding at 45%. Notably, Britain’s last operational coal-fired power facility ceased functioning back in October, marking an important milestone for G7 nations striving towards sustainable energy systems.
This decisive action was complemented by governmental initiatives introduced later that November aimed at prohibiting new coal mining projects.
The Role of Nuclear Power and Future Predictions
Nuclear energy made up roughly 13% of Britain’s generated electricity for this period while external imports accounted for another 11%. Analysis suggested that gas-powered facilities remained Britain’s primary electricity source—though forecasts indicate that wind-generated power could soon surpass gas consumption this financial year.
Pledges Towards Net-Zero Emissions
The government led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer has committed itself towards cutting greenhouse emissions dramatically—targeting an ambitious reduction rate spread across multiple decades aiming toward net-zero status by 2050, with an interim goal set at reducing emissions by up to 81% from levels recorded back in1990 by 2035* .
Diving deeper into recent historical context; adopted low-carbon strategies have also been driven partly due circumstances catalyzed following Russia’s invasion into Ukraine which effectively skyrocketed both electric and gas pricing amidst rising living costs exacerbated since early 2022. With these fluctuating market conditions posing challenges even today amid cold temperatures throughout winter; tackling these pivotal issues remains high on national agendas.
© 2025 AFP
