Carbon Brief · Climate & nature

Wind and Solar Cut UK Gas Imports by £5.9bn

Record wind and solar power generation has saved the UK an estimated £5.9 billion in gas imports since the Hormuz crisis began. This clean energy surge has helped offset rising global gas prices.

Wind and solar output is up 14% year-on-year, reducing the need for gas-fired electricity by nearly 10%. Clean energy now provides 41% of the UK's electricity, versus 25% from gas.

These avoided imports equate to over 100 LNG tanker deliveries. September 2026 alone saw £1.3bn in savings due to high renewable output and surging gas prices.

UK gas prices remain elevated, averaging 134p per therm since March 2026, nearly four times 2019 levels. September saw prices hit 189p per therm, the highest since 2022.

Rising winter demand, the Hormuz crisis, and low European stocks are driving gas prices higher.

While gas bills are rising, electricity bills have seen minimal increases due to renewables. Gas bills may rise £200 annually, while electricity bills are up 4%.

This indicates a decoupling of electricity and gas prices. High fossil fuel costs also affect oil and diesel prices.

Officials cite exposure to global markets for high bills and aim to expand clean energy to lower costs.

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