Shutdown of coal plants ‘will damage UK electricity supply’

Britain will not have enough electricity to keep the lights on by 2025 if it persists with current policies, including the early shutdown of coal plants, a report claims today.

The UK is facing a looming energy supply crisis which could see it able to generate as little as 45 per cent of the electricity required on a windless day, according to the analysis by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers.

Amber Rudd, the Energy Secretary, announced flagship green plans in November to cease Britain’s use of the “dirtiest fossil fuel” by shutting down all coal plants by 2025.

While Ms Rudd has indicated she wants a new fleet of efficient gas-fired power plants built to plug the gap, the report concludes this is “unrealistic”.

“We have neither the time, resources nor enough people with the right skills to build sufficient power plants,” said Dr Jenifer Baxter, the head of energy and environment at the institution.