UK breaks solar power record

Generation rose to a record 8.7GW as temperatures soar

Solar power output in Britain set a new record at lunchtime today (26 May), as the country enjoys the hottest day of the year.

According to the National Grid, solar generation accounted for 8.7 GW (24.3 per cent of demand) around noon.

This tops the previous record, which was set on 10 May, when 8.48GW of solar was recorded.

Duncan Burt, who is responsible for control room operations said: “We now have significant volumes of renewable energy on the system and as this trend continues, our ability to forecast these patterns is becoming more and more important.

“We have planned for these changes to the energy landscape and have the tools available to ensure we can balance supply and demand. It really is the beginning of a new era, which we are prepared for and excited to play our part,” he added.

Gareth Redmond-King, head of energy and climate at WWF, commented: “As we enjoy the sun, it’s great to learn that the UK just hit a new high for solar power generation. Each record set by renewable power generation is another welcome milestone towards a cleaner, greener future for the UK.

“Solar power and other renewables are getting cheaper and more efficient as we install more of it around the country. And it doesn’t just power our homes, but also our economy, with almost a quarter of a million people now working in the low carbon energy sector.”

The chief executive of the Solar Trade Association, Paul Barwell, said this is the first time that solar has generated more than nuclear, second only to gas.

“Currently, 12.1GW of solar has been installed throughout the UK from Scotland to Cornwall, enough to power 3.8 million homes,” said Barwell.

“This is a colossal achievement in just five years, and sends a very positive message to the UK that solar has a strong place in the decarbonisation of the UK energy sector.”