London – In a historic move towards cleaner energy, the United Kingdom has officially decommissioned its last coal-fired power plant, marking the end of a 142-year reliance on coal for electricity generation.
As of September 30, 2024, the UK becomes the first G7 country to eliminate coal from its energy portfolio, a significant milestone in the global transition to renewable energy.
This closure takes place in the very region that sparked the Industrial Revolution, symbolizing a shift not only in energy policy but also in the future of energy production. The UK’s commitment to renewable sources, particularly solar and wind, positions it at the forefront of a global movement towards sustainable energy solutions.
According to a recent report from Ember, an energy think tank, OECD countries have collectively reduced coal generation by 52% since its peak in 2007, largely due to the rise of renewable energy. “Wind and solar have driven 87% of the decline in coal generation during this period,” noted Dave Jones, Global Insights Programme Director at Ember.
With this transition, the UK becomes the 14th OECD country to achieve a coal-free power system, joining a growing list of nations that aim to phase out coal entirely by 2030. The role of coal in the UK’s energy mix has dramatically decreased over the years; coal accounted for 40% of electricity generation in 2012, but by 2019, that figure had dropped to just 2%, now reaching zero.
Jones highlighted the significance of this transition: “Coal power was once synonymous with industrial growth. Now, clean energy is driving that growth forward.”
The last coal power station, located in Nottinghamshire, has officially shut down, concluding the era of coal-fired electricity in the UK. This closure has been facilitated by the increasing capacity of cleaner energy alternatives.
The trend away from coal is not limited to the UK; emerging economies are also shifting towards renewable energy. However, some countries, like Türkiye, have seen increases in coal power generation. Nations such as Japan and South Korea have made only modest reductions.
Despite these exceptions, the overall trajectory is clear: three-quarters of OECD countries are targeting a coal phase-out by 2030. As coal exits the energy landscape, renewable sources are emerging to meet rising demand, particularly with the growing adoption of electric vehicles and heat pumps.
The Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit confirmed the closure, stating, “Britain’s last coal-fired power plant has shut down, marking the end of an era.”
This pivotal moment not only reflects the UK’s commitment to a sustainable future but also underscores the urgent global need for a transition to clean energy. By moving away from coal and embracing renewable technologies, the UK sets a precedent for other nations to follow in the fight against climate change and the pursuit of energy independence.
