Great Britain’s clean‑energy transition took another major step forward this quarter. Montel’s Q2 GB Electricity Market Summary reveals that solar generation reached a record 8.0TWh, helping renewables supply 53% of the nation’s electricity, the highest share ever recorded. It’s a milestone that highlights just how quickly the UK’s energy landscape is changing.
Solar’s rise was especially clear on 23 April, when national output hit 15.42GW, setting a new instantaneous generation record. Strong weather conditions and continued investment in PV capacity played their part, but the bigger story is momentum: solar is becoming a core pillar of Britain’s energy system. We’re happy to be supporting this new generation of clean power and with prices rising in October, acting now is more important than ever.
Wind power continued to dominate overall renewable generation, producing 18.9TWh, a 7% increase compared with last year. Even so, around 2.4TWh of potential wind output was curtailed due to system constraints, a reminder that as renewable penetration grows, flexibility and storage must grow with it.
Together, renewables and nuclear supplied roughly two‑thirds of Britain’s electricity in Q2, while fossil fuels fell to 23%. The direction of travel is unmistakable: the UK is steadily moving toward a cleaner, lower‑carbon future.
June’s heatwave offered a glimpse into the challenges that come with this transition. Strong midday solar pushed prices down, but evenings became tight as wind dropped, solar faded, demand rose and gas output fell due to high temperatures. Batteries, flexible gas generation and imports stepped in to stabilise the system showing just how vital flexibility will be as renewable generation continues to grow.
For homeowners and businesses, this shift presents a real opportunity. Generating your own power isn’t just about sustainability; it’s about resilience, independence and long‑term savings. And with price increases coming in October, now is the time to move.
We design and install high‑performance solar PV systems that help you take control of your energy future. Act now, prices rise in October. Get in touch today.
