Emissions fall by 3.6% to medieval levels

Our coal consumption plummeted to unprecedented levels, driven by the closure of the nation’s last coal-fired power station in Nottinghamshire and the shutdown of a major blast furnace at the Port Talbot steelworks in Wales. These strategic decisions contributed to a substantial decrease in fossil fuel reliance.

EV adoption

The year also witnessed a nearly 40% increase in electric vehicle (EV) registrations, reflecting a robust shift toward sustainable transportation. This surge in EV adoption played a pivotal role in curbing emissions from the transportation sector, aligning with the broader climate objectives.

Cleaner power generation

In 2024, the UK achieved its cleanest electricity generation on record, with carbon dioxide emissions per unit of electricity falling by more than two-thirds over the past decade.

This remarkable progress is attributed to the phasing out of coal and a significant increase in renewable energy sources, which now account for a substantial portion of the UK’s energy mix.

Fossil fuel-based electricity generation fell to its lowest point since 1955, supplying just 29% of the UK’s electricity in 2024.

This decline underscores the nation’s successful transition toward cleaner energy sources and its commitment to reducing carbon emissions.

Policy levers

Labour has set ambitious targets to further decarbonise its energy sector, aiming for 95% clean electricity by 2030. This goal is supported by plans to expand renewable energy capacity, including wind and solar power and to enhance energy efficiency measures across various industries.