The energy sector includes electricity, gas, oil, and an increasingly importance share of renewable energy sources. The sector is undergoing rapid transformation as the UK moves towards its legally binding target of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
Historically, the UK relied heavily on coal and North Sea oil and gas. However, coal has been almost entirely phased out of electricity generation, and renewables now account for over 40% of the UK’s electricity supply, led by wind (particularly offshore), solar, and biomass. The UK is a global leader in offshore wind, with massive projects like Hornsea and Dogger Bank shaping its clean energy landscape.
Gas still plays a key role in heating and electricity generation, but its role is expected to decline as the government promotes electrification of heating and transport, increased energy efficiency, and low-carbon alternatives such as hydrogen and heat pumps.
Energy policy in the UK is guided by strategies like the British Energy Security Strategy and the Net Zero Strategy, which aim to balance decarbonisation, energy independence, and affordability.
