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As organisations continue to roll out ambitious plans to help them become carbon neutral, renewable energy resources are fast becoming a major factor in achieving net zero goals.
There are now over 10,000 wind turbines across the UK, with several more wind farms under construction. The picture is the same across the Europe and further afield, as more planning permission is granted for green energy operations. As the use of renewable energy sources such as wind continues to increase, Graham Ross from NRL’s Falkirk branch, looks at whether the balance is starting to shift.
Green energy is overtaking fossil fuels
Data released by the National Grid to news channels including the BBC in recent weeks, showed that lunchtime on Easter Bank Holiday Monday set a new record for the greenest ever day.
A large intake from renewable energy sources overshadowed traditional energy sources, thanks to the drop in consumer demand for power. This meant that 80% of Britain’s power at 13:00 that day came from low-carbon energy sources – including 39% drawn from wind power and 21% powered by solar.
It follows an ongoing trend that’s seen the nation’s reliance on fossil fuels continue to drop.
Statistics from Renewable UK show that onshore and offshore wind projects combined now have 24,161.425 MW of operational capacity, driving 29,395,438 tonnes per annum in CO2 reductions. This means wind power can now power the equivalent of 18,420,641 homes each year.
An uptake in solar power is also helping the UK to achieve a cumulative capacity of 13,616 MW. In fact, over 1 million solar photovoltaic (PV) power sites now exist across the UK. (Source: Statista)
A switch to renewable that’s generating job opportunities
Plans to increase the production of greener energy sources is high up the Government’s agenda – including developing hydrogen and carbon capture. The Local Government Association (LGA) projects that direct jobs in the renewable energy sector may rise to 1.18m by 2050 thanks to an expected increase in low carbon and renewable energy activity. – including projects such as Dogger Bank helping to create new roles. (Source: Local Government Association)
Here at NRL we’re working with our clients to help unlock as many career opportunities as possible for candidates to work in the renewable energy sector. If you’re interested in diversifying your career into green energy, then register your CV today and set-up a job alert to receive the latest renewable roles directly into your inbox.