Britain bids only remaining coal power plant at Ratcliffe-on-Soar in Nottinghamshire will cease operations after 57 years. This closure is a significant step in the UK’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and achieving a greener future.
The shutdown aligns with the government’s policy to phase out coal power, initially announced nearly a decade ago. The closure also marks the end of Britain’s 142-year history of coal power, dating back to the world’s first coal-fired power station in 1882.
Green campaigners celebrate this moment as a major achievement for the UK’s climate goals. It represents an important milestone in the country’s journey towards reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy. Michael Shanks, the UK’s energy minister, praised the coal workers for their long service, acknowledging their role in powering the nation.
The UK was the first country to announce a coal power phase-out date, initially set for 2025. This deadline was later brought forward by a year in advance of the UN’s Cop26 climate summit in 2021. The decision solidified the UK’s position as a global leader in the transition away from coal.
Ratcliffe’s 170 remaining staff will gather on Monday to witness the power plant’s final moments. The plant, once employing 3,000 engineers, has seen its workforce shrink as coal use declined in the UK. In the early 1980s, coal powered 80% of the country’s electricity, but the rise of renewables and strict carbon taxes caused coal use to plummet.
Phil MacDonald, managing director of energy thinktank Ember, called the closure “the final chapter of a swift transition from coal.” A report by Ember highlights that coal power in OECD countries has halved since 2007, with many nations pledging to be coal-free by the end of the decade.
Friends of the Earth campaigner Tony Bosworth emphasized the need to move away from gas and focus on renewable energy development. He stressed that the green transition must protect workers and benefit communities.
Ratcliffe’s owner, Uniper, has worked with unions to help employees transition into new roles. Over 100 staff members will remain to carry out decommissioning work at the plant over the next two years.
The closure of Ratcliffe-on-Soar marks the end of Britain’s reliance on coal power, while the country embraces a future of cleaner energy.