As Britain basked in glorious sunshine over the May bank holiday this weekend, the electricity generated by solar power hit a new record.
For the first time, solar-powered electricity exceeded that generated by nuclear power stations.
Paul Barwell, Chief Executive, Solar Trade Association, explained: “With the UK bathed in glorious sunshine, we had forecasted that solar would break the previous record for output on a week-day.
“We were delighted that at around midday on 26 May 2017, 8.75GW was generated by solar, supplying nearly 25% of the UK’s total demand. This is the first time that solar has generated more than nuclear, second only to gas.”
Currently, 12.1GW of solar has been installed throughout the UK from Scotland to Cornwall, enough to power 3.8 million homes.
Barwell added: “This is a colossal achievement in just five years, and sends a very positive message to the UK that solar has a strong place in the decarbonisation of the UK energy sector.”
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