UK to Ban New Coal Mines, Accelerating Clean Energy Transition

The UK government announced on November 14 that it plans to become one of the first countries globally to ban new coal mines. This significant move is part of the nation's broader commitment to a clean energy future and its goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The government has also committed to no new North Sea oil and gas licenses during the COP29 event.

The government will introduce legislation to restrict licenses for new coal mines, effectively ending the era of coal mining in the UK. This decision comes after the country successfully phased out coal-fired power generation, with the closure of the last coal-fired power station at Ratcliffe on Soar in September 2024.

"Coal power remains the largest source of energy-related CO2 emissions globally," the government said in a statement. "Phasing it out is a crucial step to tackling climate change and limiting global temperature rises to 1.5C, while providing important health benefits through improved air quality."

To support workers affected by the coal phase-out, the government has established the Office for Clean Energy Jobs. This initiative aims to help workers transition to new, green jobs in the growing clean energy sector.

This announcement was followed by a series of climate initiatives announced by the UK government. Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a new Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) at COP29, aiming to cut UK greenhouse gas emissions by 81% by 2035. It is also actively investing in renewable energy sources like offshore wind and hydrogen power. A £27 million per Gigawatt incentive will be offered to offshore wind developers investing in UK industrial heartlands.

The government has launched Great British Energy, a state-backed company that will invest, own, and manage clean energy projects. Additionally, significant investments are being made in carbon capture and storage technologies.

Energy Minister Michael Shanks emphasized the historical significance of coal mining in powering the nation: "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."

However, he also highlighted the need for a transition to clean energy: "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 taking this decisive step and accelerating its clean energy transition, the UK aims to lead the world in combating climate change and securing a sustainable future for generations to come.