How is electricity generated?
As we head towards a greener future, how we generate electricity is changing.
However, it’s important to have different fuel sources and technologies to generate electricity to ensure a constant supply and not be overly reliant on one type of power generation.
Notably, the shift from carbon-emitting fossil fuels, a reliance that was prevalent just a few decades ago, is now being replaced as we progress from coal to clean, marking a significant step towards a more sustainable future.
Renewables are key to all of this. And it’s great news that in 2023, coal was responsible for just 1% of electricity generation, down from 5.1% in 2018, and 39.6% in 2013.
To understand the process of electricity generation, we examine all sources – from nuclear and hydrogen, to solar and imports. We also lift the lid on electricity storage and its critical role in this energy transition.
In this section, you'll learn even more about generating electricity.
How is electricity generated using hydrogen?
Hydrogen can be produced from a variety of resources, such as natural gas, nuclear power, biogas and renewable power like solar and wind.
How is electricity generated using nuclear?
Nuclear generation is and is expected to continue to be an important part of the GB generation mix as we progress toward net zero, The Prime Minister’s recent 10-point plan laid clear that nuclear…
How is electricity generated using solar?
Solar power works by converting energy from the sun into power. There are two forms of energy generated from the sun for our use – electricity and heat.
How is electricity generated using wind?
Wind is a crucial part of the power mix required to be able to run Britain’s electricity system with zero carbon by 2025. But how does wind generate electricity, and how clean and reliable is it…
What is embedded generation?
Embedded generation refers to electricity generation or storage plants connected to a distribution network.
What is transmission connected generation?
Generators connect onto the network in two ways – either as transmission connected generation or embedded generation.
How is electricity generated using gas?
Gas is a fossil fuel which can be used to generate electricity. By burning gas, heat is created which powers a turbine.
How does coal generate electricity?
Coal is a fossil fuel that has generated electricity in Great Britain since the industrial revolution. However, the decarbonisation of the grid will phase out coal usage by the end of 2024.