As a company focused on sustainable solutions, we know that renewable energy is an essential piece in the puzzle of achieving Net Zero. It is only when we draw on the sun, wind and movement of water to produce energy, that our reliance on fossil fuels and the related CO2 emissions can be reduced. Therefore, we fully support the theme of Earth Day 2025; ‘Our Power Our Planet’. It focuses on steps we can all take to encourage Governments to invest in renewable energy.
Earth Day Action Keeping Renewables On The Agenda
Did you know that in 1991, just 2% of the UK’s energy was sourced from renewables? Fortunately, there has been a considerable shift towards renewable energy since then. In the year to March 2025, an average of 36.5% of the UK’s electricity supply has been powered by renewables. The majority of this (29.9%) is wind power – a source that will not run out.
The figure fluctuates through each day, week and month, so why not check out the current UK energy sources reading? As I type this, 35% was generated by solar alone and a further 13% from wind. Biofuels and hydro made up a further 9.5% with fossil fuels only accounting for 12.9%.
The wind is blowing whether we harness its power or not. In addition, water is flowing and although we can’t always rely on the sun, it can be the primary energy source on summer days. We’ve not yet realised the full potential of energy production from these natural sources. However, with the right technology to capture, store and distribute energy, it can exceed demand.
Can we be Powered By 100% Renewable Energy?
The one thing about natural sources of energy is that they are intermittent. So, is it even possible to generate 100% of our energy needs from renewables?
Well, several countries have exceeded a consistent 99%. They include Iceland, Paraguay, Ethiopia, Bhutan and Albania. Uruguay, a country that used to be dependent on oil imports, has taken notable action to become more self-reliant. And, they’ve recently experienced 10 months of 100% renewable power. Closer to home, Germany has reached 100% for short periods.
This proves that countries in every continent have the potential to gain energy independence, reduce pollution and improve air quality. And, we can all play a small part in making this happen.
How Can We Power Up for Earth Day?
If you value the environmental benefits of renewables, there are some actions that you can take to keep the UK moving towards sustainable energy.
- Switch to an energy supplier that offers 100% renewable energy. These include Octopus Energy, Good Energy, Ecotricity, 100 Green, Green Star, Scottish Power, Outfox the Market and our energy supplier, E.ON.
- Select solar-powered lighting to illuminate outdoor areas. The options range from decorative fairy lights to security lights, solar light posts and outdoor wall lighting.
- Get involved in a community energy scheme, where residents collaborate on a local renewable energy generation project. Funding is available to support positive action.
In addition, you can help reduce energy use by switching off devices, lights and heating when they are not needed. This is a good way to help lower your household or business utility bills.
Aylesbury Box Company is focused on continuous improvement and actions towards Net Zero. Our actions are outlined in our Sustainability Policy.
