The UK’s last remaining coal-fired power station at Ratcliffe-on-Soar is due to close for the final time today (Monday 30 September).

The closure is another significant step in the demise of UK coal. Earlier this month, the High Court quashed planning permission for a new coal mine in Cumbria, following legal challenges by Friends of the Earth and South Lakes Action on Climate Change (SLACC).

Commenting, Friends of the Earth energy campaigner Tony Bosworth said:

 “The closure of Ratcliffe-on-Soar power station marks the end of a long era. Coal was the backbone of the UK’s power generation for over a century, but its place is now in the history books.

“The priority now is to move away from gas as well, by developing as fast as possible the UK’s huge homegrown renewable energy potential and delivering the economic boost that will bring. But this vital green transition must be fair by protecting workers and benefitting communities. This will cut climate emissions, reduce people’s bills and create thousands of new, well-paid green jobs.

“The government can truly signal the end of coal by refusing planning permission for the Whitehaven coal mine, a decision it must now take following Friends of the Earth’s successful legal challenge earlier this month.”