In September 2024, the UK took a historic step by officially ending coal-fired electricity generation, marking a defining moment in the country’s fight against climate change. For us, as a community energy group, this isn’t just about switching off the last coal power station—it’s a powerful symbol of the UK’s transition towards a cleaner, fairer energy future. It’s a victory for climate activists, policy makers, and communities alike, but also a reminder of the work still ahead. You can read more about how the UK became the first G7 country to phase out coal power here via Carbon Brief (its long!).
Coal, once the backbone of Britain’s industrial revolution and energy supply, has long been recognised as one of the most damaging energy sources in terms of greenhouse gas emissions. The burning of coal has contributed significantly to air pollution, health issues, and the global climate crisis. Its phase-out is an essential step in achieving the UK’s legally binding commitment to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
But while this is undoubtedly a major milestone, we must remember that this is just one chapter in the broader story of the energy transition. As coal is phased out, the shift towards renewable energy—wind, solar, hydropower, and community-led projects—needs to accelerate. The future of energy must be clean, local, and, crucially, inclusive.
The Role of Communities in the Renewable Revolution
For years, our community has been at the forefront of this change. By investing in local solar farms, wind turbines, and energy efficiency initiatives, the community energy sector has demonstrated that communities can drive the clean energy transition from the ground up. We have seen first-hand how local energy projects can create greener, healthier environments while also generating social and economic benefits. See this great example from Ambition Community Energy of how a single wind turbine tackles deprivation and poverty in Lawrence Weston, just outside Bristol. Community energy brings people together with a common goal: to generate local, renewable power, reduce reliance on the grid, and lower energy costs for households and businesses.
The end of coal presents an opportunity to deepen the role of communities in shaping the future energy system. While large-scale renewable energy projects are vital, community energy allows us to take control of our own energy future. It empowers residents to participate in decisions about how their energy is generated and used, and it helps keep profits from energy generation within the local economy.
Ensuring a Just Transition
However, the transition from coal to renewable energy is not without its challenges. One of the most critical concerns is ensuring that this shift is a just transition. As we move away from fossil fuels, it’s important that workers in the coal and broader fossil fuel industries are not left behind. Retraining and new job opportunities in the renewable sector must be made available, especially in communities that have historically depended on coal and other fossil fuels for employment.
This also extends to energy equity. As we decarbonize, we must ensure that the benefits of clean energy—lower energy bills, cleaner air, and new jobs—are felt by everyone, especially those who are most vulnerable to fuel poverty.
Looking Ahead: The Power of Local Energy
Now that coal is officially history in the UK, we must look forward to the next challenge: scaling up renewable energy and embedding community energy at the heart of the energy transition. As a community energy group, we believe that local people should be at the centre of this movement. We’re proud of what’s been achieved, but we know there’s more to do.
The UK government must continue to support community-led energy projects with policies that make it easier for small-scale renewable projects to get off the ground. This includes simplifying regulations, improving access to finance, and providing support for local groups looking to develop new projects.
With the end of coal, the future of energy is renewable, and it belongs in the hands of the people. Our community has a vital role to play in building a sustainable, affordable, and fair energy system for all. Together, we can power a greener, more equitable future—one that leaves fossil fuels in the past, where they belong.
