Scottish Power becomes first major UK energy company to generate all electricity from wind

Sign up to the Independent Climate email for the latest advice on saving the planet Get our free Climate email Get our free Climate email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Scottish Power has become the first major UK energy firm to completely drop fossil fuels in favour of wind power, after selling off its remaining gas and hydro stations to Drax for £702m. Calling it a “pivotal shift”, the company’s chief executive Keith Anderson said: “We are leaving carbon generation behind for a renewable future powered by cheaper green energy. He added: “As the system transitions towards renewable technologies, the demand for flexible, secure energy sources is set to grow.” Kate Blagojevic, head of energy at Greenpeace UK, said the move by Scottish Power was part of a much larger trend. “We need the government to give renewable energy industry its full backing rather than propping up the fossil fuel and nuclear companies.” A renewed focus has been placed on renewable energy since a major United Nations report announced that major changes would be needed across the world to limit the worst effects of climate change.