The UK government has confirmed plans to introduce legislation aimed at restricting the future licensing of new coal mines, furthering the country's transition away from coal as part of its broader climate goals. Coal remains the largest source of energy-related CO2 emissions globally, and phasing it out is considered essential in tackling climate change and limiting global temperature increases to 1.5C. It will also bring significant health benefits, particularly through improved air quality.
Britain marked a significant milestone in its decarbonisation efforts in October by becoming the first major economy to cease burning coal for power, following the closure of the Ratcliffe on Soar coal-fired power station after 50 years of operation. Coal's contribution to the UK's electricity supply has fallen from approximately 40% in 2012 to 0%, solidifying the country's position in the global shift towards cleaner energy.
Energy Minister Michael Shanks said, “Coal mining powered this country for over 140 years and we owe a huge debt to workers who kept the lights on for homes and businesses across the country. Now the UK is in prime position to lead the way in phasing out coal power around the world, which remains the single largest contributor to global emissions. By consigning coal power to the past, we can pave the way for a clean, secure energy system that will protect billpayers and create a new generation of skilled workers.”
The government's commitment to clean energy has been further demonstrated by a series of policy moves, including the reversal of the onshore wind ban in England, approval of 2GW of new solar projects, and the launch of Great British Energy, which will invest in clean power projects across the UK. Additionally, the government is investing in offshore wind, and the newly established Office for Clean Energy Jobs will help connect workers to job opportunities in the burgeoning green energy sector.
At the COP29 Summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the Clean Industry Bonus, which will offer £27 million per gigawatt to offshore wind developers who invest in the UK's industrial heartlands and coastal areas. This initiative follows a recent move to boost pensions for 120,000 former mineworkers, reflecting the government's ongoing commitment to rewarding those who have powered the country's energy needs in the past.
