A Long Time In Finance Ashes to Ashes: The Decline And Fall of Coal-Fired Electricity
Sep 6, 2024
Ewan Gibbs, a lecturer at Glasgow University and author of *Coal Country*, discusses the end of coal-fired electricity in Britain. He reflects on coal's pivotal role during the Industrial Revolution and its swift decline. The conversation touches on the historical shifts in energy reliance, the societal impact of miners' strikes, and the tumultuous transformation of electricity generation. Additionally, Gibbs highlights the challenges of transitioning to renewable energy while considering the implications of losing traditional energy sources. A thought-provoking exploration of history and future energy!
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Why Coal Survived in Electricity
- Coal persisted in electricity generation because it fit large scale power stations and used low quality coal efficiently.
- It suited government goals to use domestic fuel and supported coal industry employment.
Coal Market Was Mostly Local
- The international coal market was not large or international for most of the 20th century.
- Britain maintained a relatively competitive coal mining industry compared to other European nations.
Miners Seen as Politically Militant
- Miners have long been viewed politically as militant and radical due to historic strikes.
- This perception made governments wary and motivated diversification away from coal dependence.
