The UK experienced record highs in renewable energy generation from April 2025 to March 2026, with solar and wind providing over 38% of electricity, while gas generation dropped to 25%. However, extreme temperatures challenge grid resilience by increasing demand and causing infrastructure damage. The cold snap in January 2026 saw wind generation fall as demand peaked, requiring costly gas-powered backup. Conversely, the warm summer of 2025 caused infrastructure faults, power cuts, and limited nuclear output due to heat stress. Upgrading the grid to withstand temperature extremes and enhance capacity is vital to ensure a reliable energy system amid increasing climate variability.
21 October 2026
Global Plastic Action Partnership
A World Economic Forum Initiative