Since 1882, UK will have no coal-fired power plants
The UK will close its last coal-fired power plant on September 30, 2024, ending coal use since 1882, driven by policies, economic factors, and a shift to renewable energy.
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On September 30, 2024, the UK will close its last operational coal-fired power plant, Ratcliffe-on-Soar, marking the end of coal use in the country for the first time since 1882. This closure is the result of a combination of government policies, economic factors, and a shift towards renewable energy sources and natural gas. Historically, coal was a dominant energy source, providing over 90% of the UK's electricity as recently as 1956. However, various factors, including pollution controls, carbon pricing, and a commitment to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, have led to a significant decline in coal usage. The UK government had previously set a target to phase out coal by 2025, and the transition has accelerated, with entire weeks passing without coal generation. The decline of coal has also reduced employment in the sector, diminishing its political influence. The UK’s experience highlights the importance of transitioning to renewable energy and the economic pressures that can drive such changes. The new Labour government has now advanced its decarbonization timeline to 2030, reflecting a commitment to further reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
- The UK will close its last coal-fired power plant, ending coal use for the first time since 1882.
- The decline of coal is attributed to government policies, economic factors, and a shift to renewables and natural gas.
- Coal once provided over 90% of the UK's electricity but has seen a significant decline due to pollution controls and carbon pricing.
- The transition away from coal has reduced employment in the sector, impacting its political influence.
- The new Labour government aims to decarbonize the power sector by 2030, ahead of previous targets.
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