UK Closes Last Coal Plant, Emphasizes Renewables

The UK has closed its last coal-fired power plant, Ratcliffe-on-Soar, ending a 142-year era of coal-generated electricity and becoming the first G7 country to phase out coal power entirely. This milestone marks a significant step toward the UK's goal of generating all its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. The plant's closure is part of a broader transition to cleaner energy sources, including natural gas, nuclear, wind, and solar power, which now account for over half of the UK's electricity. The end of coal power follows a historical decline from providing 80% of the UK's electricity in 1990 to just 1% in recent years. This transition also comes with economic and social implications, including job losses and community impacts, particularly in areas historically dependent on coal. Despite challenges, the government emphasizes the creation of new, sustainable energy jobs as part of the country's future.