Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser has cited reduced energy generation from onshore wind in quarter 4 of 2012, compared to 2011, as indicative of why winter electricity needs cannot realistically rely on wind power.
Despite increased capacity, onshore wind’s contribution in quarter 4 of 2012 fell by 7.3% when compared to the same period in 2011[1].
Comparisons between UK electricity consumption in quarter 4 of 2011 and quarter 4 of 2012 showed a rise in demand from 97,009 GWh to 99,906 GWh[2].
Commenting Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“Traditionally quarter 4, running between October, November and December experiences the second largest demand for electricity, yet here we have a reduction in the amount of energy onshore wind produces, despite a significant increase in capacity.
“Building more onshore wind turbines cannot solve the intermittency issues created by a lopsided energy policy that is becoming over-reliant on wind power.
“The intermittency of wind power is still without solution and until that is met, the UK or any other nation cannot realistically move to wind power without significant reserves of inefficiently run back up power generation.
“Despite coal still providing a substantial share of Scotland’s electricity generation we have seen uncertainty plunge the industry into jeopardy.
“Building more onshore wind farms is not the solution, and the Scottish Government must consider diversifying the energy generation mix for a more balanced energy policy.”