UK Government Announces Ban on New Coal Mines

The UK government has announced plans to ban new coal mines, marking a historic shift towards clean energy following the closure of the country's last coal-fired power station, Ratcliffe-on-Soar, in September 2024. Energy Minister Michael Shanks emphasized the need to phase out fossil fuels to combat climate change and improve air quality, while paying tribute to the workers who have powered the coal industry for over 140 years. The legislation will amend the Coal Industry Act of 1994 to restrict future coal mining licenses, effectively halting plans for the first new deep coal mine in nearly three decades in West Cumbria. This move aligns with the UK’s commitment to achieving clean power by 2030 and aims to create new jobs in the clean energy sector. While there will be some exemptions for safety and personal mining rights, the overarching goal is to transition away from coal as a significant energy source. This initiative positions the UK as a leader in global efforts to reduce coal dependency and tackle emissions.