How electricity is generated and distributed in the UK

In Scotland electricity is generated at power stations using a variety of sources including coal, gas, nuclear and renewable sources - see chart below. The energy released by these sources is used to create high pressure steam to drive turbines.The turbine powers a generator, which is a magnet-bearing shaft that is encased within heavy copper coils. The rotating motion induces an electric current, and creates large amounts of electricity.

From the power station, the electricity enters the grid through which it is distributed at high voltage via a network of overhead lines and underground cables.

Except for the very largest industrial customers who take power direct from the grid, the voltage is stepped down through a series of distribution systems and substations. These act like transformers, eventually reducing in stages the voltage to the 230 volts we’re all familiar with in our homes.

In the north of Scotland, Scottish and Southern Electricity (SSE) owns all of the grid and also operates the lower voltage lines. High voltage transmission lines are operated by National Grid Company (NGC) as part of a Great Britain-wide system. The lines in the south of Scotland are owned by ScottishPower.

Under current estimates, by 2025, it is likely that all of Scotland’s current power stations will have ceased operating and, as such, renewable energy has a vital role to play in serving the future energy needs of Scotland. Given the level of resource available, Scotland will also play an important role in supplying electricity at the UK level. Scotland, therefore, could be at the forefront of the UK’s efforts to reduce carbon dioxide emmissions.

Baseload Chart Details

NUCLEAR: 36%
COAL: 33%
GAS: 20%
RENEWABLES: 11%

There has already been a lot of activity in the electricity generation sector in Scotland in the past few years with the initial focus on reducing the emissions from Scotland's two coal fired power stations. In 2002, with around 9% of Scottish electricity coming from hydro another 1.5% from wind and 0.5% from biomass, a start has clearly been made.

The Scottish Government wants to see 40% of electricity sourced from renewables by 2020 and this will involve a great deal more activity from the green energy sector and continued political support north and south of the border.

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