In 2015, 57% Of Scotland’s Energy Came From Renewables

Credit: Flickr / Oliver Clarke
Credit: Flickr / Oliver Clarke

Go, Scotland!

According to a new report published by the UK Department of Energy and Climate Change, Scotland sourced an impressive 57.7% of its electricity in 2015 from renewable sources. Reportedly, about 80% of the country’s renewable energy capacity is sourced from wind, wave, and tidal power.

These sources helped Scotland generate 21,983 gigawatts of energy from 7,723 megawatts of installed capacity. That’s not insignificant – in fact, this January, there were 22 days when the amount of electricity generated from just wind power was enough to power every home in the country.

Slashdot reports that the milestone comes shortly after the UK government decided to end public subsidies for onshore wind farms a year ago. In spite of the decision, Scotland is still making impressive progress in its goal to become the first fully renewable electricity nation by 2030.

WWF Scotland’s director, Lang Banks, told Herald Scotland:

“Independent research has shown that it is possible for Scotland to have a secure, efficient electricity system, based on almost entirely renewable electricity generation, by 2030. Embracing that vision would maximize the opportunities to create new jobs, empower communities and support local economic renewal throughout the country.”

Clean energy proponents are heralding Scotland’s accomplishment as proof that, someday, all nations may reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and transition to renewable sources. 

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