Britain Closes Final Coal Power Station, Marking End of 142-Year Era
The UK has officially shut down its last coal-fired power station, bringing an end to over 140 years of coal-generated electricity in the country.
The closure of Ratcliffe-on-Soar power station in Nottinghamshire on Monday signifies Britain becoming the first G7 country to fully phase out coal power. The station, which began operations in 1967, had been the last of its kind since September 2023.
The move is a major milestone in the UK’s efforts to combat climate change and their goal to reach net zero emissions by 2050 and decarbonize the electricity sector by 2030, as the country continues its transition to renewable energy sources like wind and solar. In 1990, coal provided around 80% of Britain’s electricity. However, with the push for cleaner energy, coal has been phased out, contributing to just 1% of the country’s power last year.
Renewables already generate more than 50% of the UK’s power, a dramatic increase from just 7% in 2010. This shift has helped the UK halve its greenhouse gas emissions since 1990.
Energy Minister Michael Shanks praised the workers at Ratcliffe and the coal industry as a whole for their contribution to powering the nation over the past century. He emphasised that while the coal era is ending, a new chapter in energy innovation is beginning, with renewable energy and technologies like carbon capture paving the way for future energy independence.
Lord Deben, the longest-serving environment secretary, highlighted the significance of the transition, noting that the UK’s leadership in phasing out coal sets a global benchmark.
He said, “Britain built its strength on coal, and now we are showing the world it is possible to move on.”
Coal plant closures bring concerns over job losses
The closure of coal plants, however, has come at a cost, particularly for those working in the industry. While 170 workers are still employed at Ratcliffe during the two-year decommissioning process, there are concerns about job losses. However, the government is pushing for the creation of new jobs in renewable energy, focusing on areas like wind power and carbon capture, particularly in regions affected by the transition from fossil fuels.
The loss of coal plants isn’t all sunshine…
The rise in renewable energy hasn’t been without challenges. The energy system still relies on natural gas to stabilise the grid, as coal provides reliable energy regardless of weather conditions. Experts like Kayte O’Neill, chief operating officer at the Energy System Operator, stressed the need for continued innovation, particularly in battery technology, to ensure a stable supply of electricity.
Despite the challenges, the UK’s shift to green energy has been hailed as a major achievement. Dave Jones, director of global insights at Ember, said that setting clear goals in 2015 to end coal use within a decade helped guide the industry’s transition and inspired other nations to follow suit.
As the UK looks ahead, the focus is on achieving its goal of net zero electricity generation by 2030. The end of coal power marks a significant chapter in Britain’s industrial history, but it also signals the dawn of a cleaner, more sustainable future.
