The Biden Administration is intensifying its efforts towards a greener future, announcing a significant shift away from coal power. During the COP28 United Nations climate change summit in Dubai, U.S. Special Envoy for Climate John Kerry revealed the United States’ commitment to cease the construction of new coal plants and gradually phase out existing ones, though no specific timeline was provided for the latter.
Kerry emphasized the United States’ dedication to mitigating global warming, aligning with the goal of limiting temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius. As part of this initiative, the U.S. has joined the Powering Past Coal Alliance, a coalition of almost 60 nations focused on expediting the transition away from coal-fired power stations. This coalition acknowledges exceptions for plants equipped with carbon capture and storage technology.
The move towards renewable energy sources is evident in the decreasing reliance on coal within the United States. Data from the Department of Energy indicates that as of October, coal accounted for just under 20% of U.S. electricity, a stark reduction from 2008 levels. President Biden has previously stated plans to shut down coal plants across the nation, replacing them with wind and solar power.
The transition is already in motion, driven by federal clean energy tax incentives and regulations that challenge the economic viability of coal operators. A study by the Institute for Energy Economics and Finance Analysis predicts the closure of 173 coal plants by 2030 and an additional 54 by 2040. For example, the Brandon Shores coal power plant near Baltimore is slated for deactivation in June 2025, following an agreement between the plant operator and the Sierra Club.
The environmental impact of coal is significant, as it generates more carbon emissions than other non-renewable fuels. The American Geosciences Institute notes that coal power’s carbon footprint is about double that of natural gas. The U.S. Energy Information Administration reports coal produces approximately 211 pounds of carbon dioxide per million BTUs of energy, compared to natural gas at around 117 pounds and gasoline at about 156 pounds.
This commitment by the U.S. contrasts sharply with China’s recent expansion in coal power generation. China, responsible for around 27% of global emissions, has emissions levels nearly triple those of the U.S., the world’s second-largest emitter. In the backdrop of these developments, global delegates at COP28 are also advocating for an immediate ban on new natural gas infrastructure projects in the U.S. and other Western countries.