Gas-fired power plants in the UK are using less energy than ever before because renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, and electricity coming from Norway and France dominate the grid. An in-depth study by Kilowatt.io shows that fewer than half of big gas turbines were active during peak demand hours in 2024. This trend which is about more production from new plants raises concerns on how to compensate these plants, which remain very important for keeping energy steady when there isn’t much renewable energy being made.

In the country of Germany, gas-powered plants are also struggling, with many operating at a loss even during the typically high-demand winter months. Germany wants to get 80 percent of its power from clean energy by the year 2030, but things are going slow because of bureaucratic challenges and problems with supplies. Germany also wants to stop using coal and is going to greatly increase the number of gas power plants. The government plans to start a capacity market for supporting the construction. It’s expected to be rolled out by 2028.