Government to ban new coal mining schemes as UK turns to clean energy

The UK Government has announced a ban on new coal mining schemes, signalling an end to the era of coal extraction in Britain.

Ministers have confirmed that legislation will be introduced to restrict future licensing of new coal mines, emphasising that phasing out the fossil fuel globally is essential for limiting temperature rises and improving air quality. This follows the UK's cessation of burning coal for power in October, marked by the closure of Ratcliffe-on-Soar power station in Nottinghamshire, the last coal-fired plant in operation.

While the ban will generally cover coal extraction for all purposes, including fuel and coking coal for steel production, there will be some exceptions. The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has indicated that limited exemptions may be allowed for "safety or restoration purposes" and to honour the historic rights of freeminers in the Forest of Dean.

Additionally, a "small number" of existing operational coal mines with current licences and consents will not be affected by the new restrictions. In announcing the plans to prohibit new coal mining licences, Energy Minister Michael Shanks paid homage to the coal miners who historically "kept the lights on" across the nation. He stated that moving beyond coal power is a critical step towards a clean energy future.

The era of coal power in the UK commenced in 1882 with the opening of the world's first coal-powered station at Holborn Viaduct, London. Despite being a historical resource for industry and heating, coal saw decreased importance in the energy mix; by 2012, it generated 40% of the UK's electricity, yet this figure has plummeted to zero following the closure of the nation’s coal power stations.

However, internationally, coal remains the predominant source of climate-warming emissions and, as UN Cop29 climate talks progress in Azerbaijan, recent analysis indicates that carbon pollution from coal is on the increase. In Whitehaven, Cumbria, a plan to open the first new coal mine in three decades aiming to produce coking coal for steel-making has faced considerable legal and regulatory hurdles.

Following a significant High Court judgment that revoked planning permission in September and refusal by the relevant authority to provide mining licences, the future of the project remains uncertain. Mr Shanks commented: "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."

He added: "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."

Jess Ralston, head of energy at the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) think tank, highlighted the shift from coal as a major step forward: "By consigning coal power to the past, we can pave the way for a clean, secure energy system that will protect billpayers and create a new generation of skilled workers."

Emphasising the country's move towards renewable energy, she added: "Instead of being stuck in the past, we’ve chosen to invest in kickstarting the industries of the future, like offshore wind, which is where economic growth lies."

Ms Ralston also cited the international implications of the UK's actions: "This is the example that the rest of the world can follow, showing that what the UK does matters internationally."