Real Independence: In 2014, Scotland used more Renewable Energy than Nuclear, Coal or Gas

Juan Cole 12/09/2014

By Juan Cole

Edie.net reports that in November, wind energy alone produced more than enough electricity for every home in Scotland. Over all in 2013, Scotland produced 46.6% equivalent of its gross electricity from renewables. Scotland, with a population of 4 million, is well on its way to getting 100% of its electricity from renewables by 2020, among the more ambitious goals set by anyone in the world. – JC

Next Energy News: “2014 Review: Scotland used more renewable energy than nuclear coal or gas”

Scottish Renewables’ has a chart showing that the two biggest sources of energy for Scotland are hydro and wind. This is a good combination since hydro is not intermittent and can take up slack when wind dies down. Scotland is also exploring wave energy, which also would not be intermittent. No need for fracking there.

About the Author

Juan Cole is the founder and chief editor of Informed Comment. He is Richard P. Mitchell Professor of History at the University of Michigan He is author of, among many other books, Muhammad: Prophet of Peace amid the Clash of Empires and The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam. Follow him on Twitter at @jricole or the Informed Comment Facebook Page