Energy
November 14, 2024
Border
Less than
1
min read

Britain Plans to Ban New Coal Mines in Move Toward Cleaner Energy

The UK government is drafting new legislation to ban all new coal mines, aiming to accelerate its transition to renewable energy. The move follows the recent closure of Ratcliffe-on-Soar, the nation’s last coal-fired power station, marking a shift away from coal, which once accounted for 40% of the UK’s energy. The ban is part of a broader commitment by Prime Minister Keir Starmer to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 81% from 1990 levels by 2035.
Britain Plans to Ban New Coal Mines in Move Toward Cleaner Energy
Dexter Fernandes - Unsplash

Britain is preparing legislation to prohibit the development of new coal mines, signaling a historic shift in the nation’s energy strategy. Announced by Energy Minister Michael Shanks, the legislation aims to support the UK’s long-term transition to cleaner energy sources, paving the way for a new generation of skilled jobs in sustainable industries.

The announcement comes on the heels of Britain’s last coal-fired power plant, Ratcliffe-on-Soar in Nottinghamshire, ceasing operations on October 1 after five decades. As recently as 2012, coal provided around 40% of the UK’s electricity; today, coal’s role in the energy mix is negligible, with renewable energy sources and natural gas taking the lead.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer underscored Britain’s climate ambitions at the Baku Climate Summit, where he committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 81% by 2035, using 1990 as the baseline. Banning new coal mines aligns with this goal and with the government’s vision for a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.

Minister Shanks emphasized that the planned ban on new coal mines will contribute to a modernized energy system and create opportunities for skilled workers in renewable energy and other sustainable sectors. The policy marks a definitive departure from the country’s coal-reliant past and reflects the UK’s commitment to its net-zero targets and the global shift toward decarbonization.

This legislative effort is part of the UK's ongoing efforts to phase out fossil fuels, support climate action, and position itself as a leader in renewable energy innovation.

Close Icon