Europe must resist backsliding on coal cuts this winter

Written by Thomas Lewis, Energy Policy Expert at CAN Europe. Over the last two winters coal did not make the comeback like many were advocating. Under the pretense of “energy security” and “keeping the lights on” following price spikes and supply constraints as a result of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, there were calls across Europe to delay the phase out of coal power plants. The promise was coal-based electricity could plug the gap to reduce fossil gas usage and supply power during periods of low renewable production, during the darkest, calmest moments in winter with little sun nor wind, known as the “Dunkelflaute”. Progress has been made on coal phase-out during 2024, with both the UK and Denmark closing their last plants this year, as Spain, Germany and Italy close several further plants. These positive developments can be attributed to the expansion of renewable energy and an overall reduction in demand. In 2023, wind alone produced more electricity in Europe than gas, while in the first half of 2024 wind and solar overtook fossil electricity entirely. This is good news for consumers, as renewables produce much cheaper electricity than fossil fuels, contributing to lower bills. However, as we head further into the winter, the fear of winter supply issues are resurfacing. France has announced its Saint-Avold coal plant, originally scheduled to close in 2022, will be brought back online this winter, putting the country’s emission reduction plans at risk. Due to low renewables production in Germany this November, conversations of coal back-up have reignited, which risks casting doubt over the coal phase-out during an election campaign. In the Netherlands, analysis has warned that low CO2 prices could encourage coal plants, now stripped of any production limits, to make a profit and provide electricity. Any prolongation of coal this winter is unnecessary, expensive and only serves to delay the transition to a renewable, flexible, and reliable energy system. This winter, EU countries should not roll back their coal phase-out commitments, but accelerate them. In preparation for this winter, Member States should enact mandatory demand reduction measures as many did in previous years as a means to phase out coal and fossil gas. During periods of lower renewables production, households and industry should reduce and shift their demand. Winter preparedness should no longer be measured by the extent to which fossil gas storage is filled and coal plants are available to be brought online if needed. This is the expensive past. In the future, European countries need to double down on energy savings, roll-out flexible solutions such as energy storage and demand side response, and better interconnect with neighbouring countries. Building a 100% renewables based and flexible energy system will ensure affordable electricity in summer and in winter.