CARBON emissions from Britain’s power sector fell to their lowest level for 60 years in the last quarter of 2016, a report has revealed.

The new figures, published in the Electric Insights report, were produced by researchers at Imperial College London and Selby-based Drax.

Coal generation fell 61 per cent from 2015 and the September to December period saw low carbon sources provide an average of 40 per cent of Britain’s electricity needs over the quarter, peaking at a record 81 per cent high over the Christmas period.

Andy Koss, Drax Power chief executive, said: “These figures highlight a truly seismic shift in the balance of power. Coal continues to disappear at a dramatic rate and we can see the impact of intermittent renewables which have been affected by dramatic weather events.

“Low gas prices and the Carbon Price Floor are forcing coal off the system and helping to ensure the UK is on track to meet its carbon targets for the power generation industry.

“It’s essential the UK’s energy system is supported by the right mix of power generation. Coal-to-biomass conversions and gas peaking plants are the best way to get coal off the system quickly and cost effectively whilst ensuring security of supply.”