Rishi Sunak's weakening of UK net-zero policy is an unhelpful delay
New ScientistOct 05, 2023
UK Closes Last Coal-Fired Power Plant
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Above: A view of the 655-acre site of the Ratcliffe-on-Soar Power Station in the East Midlands, the UK's last active coal-fired power station, which closed on Sept. 30, 2024. Image copyright: Jacob King/Contributor/PA Images via Getty Images
The Facts
The UK was to close its last coal-fired power plant on Monday, ending 142 years of coal-generated electricity dating back to the Industrial Revolution.
The closure of the Ratcliffe-on-Soar plant in England's East Midlands, which has been in operation since 1967, culminates a nearly decade-long process to shift away from coal — a fossil fuel that produces the most greenhouse emissions when burned.
The Spin
Narrative A
The closure of the UK's last coal-fired power plant is a huge milestone and is an exemplary success story in how to move away from damaging fossil fuels towards renewable energy. This is global leadership, paving the way for other countries to follow.
Narrative B
While the closure of Ratcliffe-on-Soar has a beneficial impact on the release of greenhouse gases, it presents challenges as it leaves the UK exposed to volatile gas prices. Figures show that the UK pays more than any other nation for energy and this has an impact on economic competitiveness.
