The landscape of power generation in New England is undergoing a significant transformation, as the region moves closer to bidding farewell to coal-fired energy. This change is marked by the upcoming closures of New Hampshire’s two remaining coal plants, thus positioning New England as the second area in the United States to eliminate coal power completely.
The Pact for a Cleaner Energy Transition
A pivotal agreement has been struck between environmental groups and energy providers, signifying a major step towards a cleaner future. The Sierra Club, The Conservation Law Foundation, and the EPA reached a settlement with Granite Shore Power, leading to the planned shut down of the coal units at two New Hampshire stations. Merrimack Station is scheduled to cease coal operations by 2028 and Schiller Station by 2025.
Solar and Storage: A Renewable Solution
At Schiller Station, future plans exhibit an eco-friendly vision. The site, which grazes the coastal line, is set to become home to a solar array complemented by a battery storage facility. This installation will not only supply energy during peak demand periods but will also serve as an energy reserve for the burgeoning wind power projects off Martha’s Vineyard’s coast and in the Gulf of Maine.
This transition is evidence of New Hampshire’s determination to lead in environmental stewardship, promoting it as the 16th state to operate without coal. Furthermore, it reinforces New England’s status as the second region in America, after the Pacific Northwest, to declare independence from coal-generated electricity.
A Victory for the Environment and Public Health
Gina McCarthy, a Senior Advisor for Bloomberg Philanthropies and a former White House National Climate Advisor, expressed her elation over the development. She recognized it as the result of persistent efforts by dedicated individuals throughout New England who understood the detrimental impact of coal, not just environmentally but also on human health.
The Impacts of Phasing Out Coal in New England
The outage of the eight coal plants in the region signals the removal of 2.9 gigawatts (GW) of coal energy, thereby reducing New England’s carbon emissions by approximately 15.6 million tons. This emission reduction is analogous to removing over three million cars from the roads for a year. With close to 33 GW of renewable wind, solar, and storage technologies in the pipeline, New England is steadfastly moving towards a more sustainable energy matrix.
A Nationwide Push Against Coal
This initiative is part of a broader national effort led by Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Beyond Carbon initiative and the Sierra Club’s Beyond Coal campaign, which have together accomplished an impressive feat — the retirement of 72% of the country’s coal-fired power plants. This equates to shutting down 381 out of a total of 530 plants, marking an epochal shift in America’s energy production landscape.
In conclusion, New England is on track to not only improve its environmental footprint but also to set a robust example for sustainable progression in power generation. As the region turns the page on coal, it opens a promising chapter on energy innovation and green practices.
