UK Closes Final Coal-Fired Power Plant, Leading G7 in Energy Transition

The United Kingdom has closed its last coal-fired power plant, Ratcliffe-on-Soar, marking the end of an era that began in 1882. This significant milestone positions the UK ahead of other G7 nations in phasing out coal, a goal they aim to meet by 2035. The closure underscores the UK's leadership in climate action and its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The shutdown of Ratcliffe, which opened in 1968, was accelerated by the conservative government under Boris Johnson, advancing the coal phase-out by a year to 2024. British climate advisor Chris Stark highlighted the country's progress, stating it is 'far ahead' of its peers.

The UK has burned 4.6 billion tons of coal and emitted 10.4 billion tons of carbon dioxide over its coal-powered history. Energy Under-Secretary Michael Shanks emphasized a future of new job opportunities in renewable energy sectors such as wind power and carbon capture.

The Ratcliffe closure, driven by rising carbon taxes and a gas crisis, symbolizes a shift towards a sustainable energy future, with nuclear power still playing a key role in the UK's energy mix.