Renewable energy accounts for over half of the UK's electricity generation in early 2026

New government energy statistics show renewable energy sources generated more than half of the UK's electricity during the first quarter of 2026, demonstrating the growing role of clean energy generation.  

According to the latest Energy Trends report, renewable energy accounted for 53.1% of total electricity generation between January and March 2026. Wind power made the largest contribution, generating 35.6% of total electricity output, significantly surpassing gas generation, which accounted for 32.3%. 

This increase has been largely attributed to the growth in wind generation capacity and stronger wind speeds during the quarter. Meanwhile, solar and bioenergy generation remained broadly unchanged compared to last year. 

Fossil fuel generation continued to decline, falling by 16% and accounting for just 32.8% of total electricity generation, highlighting the UK's continued shift towards renewable sources of electricity generation. 

As councils continue to explore renewable energy generation opportunities, these figures demonstrate the growing importance local renewable energy projects, community energy schemes and investment in low-carbon infrastructure. The increasing contribution of renewable technologies to the national grid reinforces the role local authorities can play in supporting the UK's net zero ambitions through place-based energy initiatives.