Energy imports fuel the UK

The UK imported more energy than it generated during 2011, for the first time since 1974, as primary energy production fell a record 13%, according to data from DECC

The energy statistics from DECC also reveal that during 2011 renewable energy generation increased by 33%, with power from solar photovoltaics increasing 12-fold, as a result of the feed-in tariff.

The figures also reveal that energy consumption across the UK continued its downward trend, with total energy demand falling by 1.7% and electricity consumption down by 3% – to the lowest level since 1998.

Meanwhile, DECC revealed it has been able to cut energy use at its head office by 60% in four years, by deploying efficiency measures including installing lighting and heating controls.

Since moving into 3 Whitehall Place in 2008, DECC has improved the display energy certificate efficiency rating of the building from “G” to “C”, saving more than £150,000 on its annual energy bills and halving carbon emissions.