UK aims for first coal-less day since Industrial Revolution
Danica Kirka, Associated Press Updated 12:15 pm, Friday, April 21, 2017
LONDON (AP) Britain expects Friday to be the first full day since the Industrial Revolution when it hasn't depended on coal for electricity.
The U.K. has steadily tried to reduce its reliance on the most-polluting of fossil fuels by increasing the use of natural gas and alternatives such as wind. The previous record for coal-free power was 19 hours, according to National Grid, which operates the country's transmission system and expects to achieve 24 hours on Friday.
"It's a milestone in a transition to fuels that will be more flexible and sustainable," said David Elmes, head of the Warwick Business School's Global Energy Research Network.
During the coal-less periods, the plants are not shut down altogether, but do not supply electricity to the grid.
More:
http://www.chron.com/news/science/article/Britain-could-see-its-first-full-day-without-coal-11089088.php