Energy Statistics Update: February 25, 2016 - Covering energy trends and their corresponding market prices.

UK Energy Statistics: Q4 2015 Highlights

The UK witnessed significant shifts in its energy production landscape during the last quarter of 2015, with renewable sources playing a more prominent role.

Major power producers increased their contribution from renewable sources, particularly wind energy and photovoltaic (solar) sectors. This growth was driven by high volumes of new projects, especially in Germany, which saw strong growth during this period.

The wind generation by Major Power Producers increased by 17.4%, with record levels for total and offshore wind generation in December 2015. This surge in renewable energy production contributed to a 10.5 percentage point increase in the low carbon share of electricity generation, reaching 45.9%.

Despite the rise in renewables, coal still accounted for 22.6% of electricity generation, but saw a significant decrease of 37%. On the other hand, nuclear power witnessed a 33% increase, making up 23.1% of the electricity mix.

Primary energy consumption in the UK decreased by 5.0% from October to December 2015 compared to the same period a year earlier, with a decrease of 3.1% on a temperature-adjusted basis.

Energy prices also saw a downturn, with both petrol and diesel prices reaching their lowest levels since June and April 2009 respectively. This drop was attributed to the continued fall in crude oil prices.

For detailed data on various aspects of energy production, consumption, and prices, contact the respective experts listed below:

Coal statistics: 0300 068 5050
Natalie Cartwright for Oil: 0300 068 5260
Shyam Lakhani for Gas: 0300 068 6865
Electricity statistics: 0300 068 2928
Susan Lomas for Weather: 0300 068 5047
Matthew Gardner for International road fuel prices: 0300 068 5057
Iain Macleay, lead statistician: 0300 068 5048

Data tables provided will always direct you to the latest data tables. For historical data tables, contact Kevin Harris at 0300 068 5041.

Press enquiries can be made at 0300 060 4000. The next release of provisional monthly energy statistics will take place on 31 March 2016.

For more information about the retail prices of petroleum products, a crude oil price index, and other related data, visit the relevant subject links provided.

Energy Statistics Update: February 25, 2016 - Covering energy trends and their corresponding market prices.