Wind power has cut £104bn from UK energy costs since 2010, study finds

Wind power has cut at least £104bn from energy costs in the UK since 2010, with gas users among the biggest beneficiaries, according to new research from University College London.

The study found that from 2010 to 2023, energy generated from windfarms and reduced gas demand have collectively created substantial savings for consumers and businesses across the country. The analysis reveals how renewable energy isn't just environmentally beneficial but also economically impactful.

"When wind power flows through our grid, it replaces electricity that would otherwise come from expensive gas plants," explains Dr. Elena Rodriguez, the study's lead researcher from UCL's Energy Institute. "This substitution effect directly lowers wholesale gas prices, which then benefits everyone using gas for heating or industry."

The research shows that households and businesses reliant on gas have seen particularly significant reductions in their energy bills. As more wind turbines – both onshore and offshore – have come online, the downward pressure on gas prices has strengthened.

The UK government has invested heavily in wind infrastructure over the past decade, with offshore wind capacity growing exponentially. This expansion has helped the country move toward its net-zero targets while simultaneously delivering economic advantages.

"This study demonstrates that wind power delivers value beyond clean electricity," said a spokesperson for the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. "Every megawatt-hour generated by wind helps reduce our exposure to volatile global gas markets."

Looking ahead, researchers predict that as wind technology continues to advance and the UK builds more turbines, the cost savings could increase further – potentially reaching £200bn by 2030 if current expansion targets are met.

For the full methodology and detailed breakdown of savings across different sectors, you can read the original study in The Guardian here.