Comparing coal phase-out pathways: The United Kingdom's and Germany's diverging transitions

Area of Science:

• Environmental Policy
• Energy Economics
• Comparative Politics

Background:

• Divergent political decisions on coal use for electricity generation in the UK and Germany, despite similar climate targets.
• The UK aims for a coal phase-out by 2024, while Germany's is scheduled by 2038.
• Understanding the drivers and hurdles of coal phase-outs is crucial for energy transition policies.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate the reasons behind the differing coal phase-out trajectories in the UK and Germany.
• Identify key drivers and obstacles influencing coal phase-out policies.
• Analyze the role of actor groups and their influence on policy outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Comparative case study of the UK and Germany.
• Application of the Triple Embeddedness Framework.
• Analysis of political decisions and trends regarding coal use.

Main Results:

• Policy outcomes on coal consumption are significantly shaped by actor groups: coal companies, unions, environmental NGOs, and government.
• Energy security, domestic coal mining, regional economic dependence, and the power of vested interests are critical factors.
• The relative power dynamics among these actors influence the pace and nature of coal phase-outs.

Conclusions:

• Actor influence and vested interests are primary determinants of differing coal phase-out speeds.
• Addressing energy security and regional economic impacts is vital for successful coal phase-outs.
• The Triple Embeddedness Framework provides valuable insights into navigating complex energy transitions.