The UK has made remarkable strides in renewable energy, reaching its cleanest point ever in 2024.
A record 45% of electricity was generated from renewable sources, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s journey toward sustainability. Over the past decade, carbon emissions have plummeted, with emissions per unit falling by two-thirds, from 150 million tonnes of CO₂ in 2014 to under 40 million tonnes in 2024.
But which regions are leading the UK renewable energy revolution? A new analysis by Confused.com Energy has unveiled which parts of the UK are spearheading the transition to clean energy.
Scotland: The renewable energy powerhouse
Scotland leads the UK renewable energy potential, scoring an impressive 7.6/10. With a robust onshore wind capacity factor of 37.3%, second only to Northern Ireland, Scotland generates over 11GW of wind power, representing 39% of the UK’s total capacity.
While solar power plays a smaller role, with systems running at just 16% efficiency, Scotland’s overall renewable achievements are staggering.
In 2022, the nation hit a major milestone by generating 113% of its electricity needs from renewables – producing more green energy than it consumed.
Yorkshire and the Humber: A rising star
Yorkshire and the Humber secured second place with a renewable energy score of 7.58/10. The region benefits from an average wind speed of 5.83 m/s and a wind energy output of 32.3%, projected to soar to 56.1% by 2040.
Hull City Council’s approval of a £200m Yorkshire Energy Park highlights the region’s commitment to clean energy investment.
In addition to wind, Yorkshire boasts a 221% year-on-year increase in solar installations and enjoys an average monthly solar radiation of 220.67 W/m². These factors make it a significant contributor to the UK renewable energy landscape.
East of England: Solar energy hotspot
Ranking third with a score of 7.32/10, the East of England is a solar energy frontrunner. The region enjoys an average monthly solar radiation of 240.85 W/m², enabling its solar systems to operate at 18.1% capacity – the second-highest efficiency in the UK.
With 1,638 hours of sunshine annually, areas like Norfolk and Suffolk are ideal for solar power generation.
The region is also set to expand its renewable energy capacity with three new solar farms approved in 2024. These projects are expected to contribute two-thirds of the region’s total installed solar energy from the previous year.
Challenges in renewable energy: West Midlands and London
Not all regions are equally positioned for renewable energy success. The West Midlands ranks lowest with a renewable potential score of 5.89/10.
Despite plans to invest £707m in green energy projects, the region struggles with low solar productivity (16.1% capacity) and minimal wind efficiency (26.8% capacity).
London follows closely with a score of 6.31/10. The capital’s dense urban environment limits its renewable energy potential.
However, innovative use of commercial rooftop spaces has led to 8,208 solar installations, achieving a notable 17.8% capacity factor – the third highest in the UK.
Wind energy, on the other hand, remains a challenge, with onshore systems operating at a mere 26% capacity.
The full analysis can be found here.
The future of UK renewable energy
The UK’s renewable energy potential continues to grow, with regions like Scotland, Yorkshire, and the East of England setting benchmarks in sustainability.
Investments in clean energy infrastructure and advancements in technology are helping to bridge the gap for lower-ranking regions.
As the nation progresses toward its net-zero targets, the emphasis on renewable energy sources will play a pivotal role in reducing carbon emissions and achieving energy independence.
With continued innovation and regional collaboration, the UK is well-positioned to remain a global leader in the renewable energy revolution.
While some regions excel more than others, every part of the UK contributes to the collective effort to harness clean energy and combat climate change.
With bold investments and ambitious goals, the future of UK renewable energy looks brighter than ever.
