Ratcliffe-On-Soar power station, the last link to Britain’s coal-fired past

If you reside in or near Nottinghamshire or have ever travelled through East Midlands airport, you will no doubt recognise the renowned Ratcliffe-On-Soar power station. On 30 September 2024, the closure of this enormous power station marked the historic moment when coal-fired power stations ceased to operate in the UK.

Ratcliffe-On-Soar was originally commissioned in 1967 and powered over 2 million homes. Its decommissioning marks the first time since 1882 that Britain will not use coal as part of its energy production base. To prepare for demolition, the shutdown process is expected to last for about 2 years. This includes deactivating all electrical supplies and removing any potentially dangerous materials.

The power station occupied a whopping 2.7km2 of land, an area which after demolition will be ripe for redevelopment. Developers Arup worked with Uniper (the site owner) and Rushcliffe Borough Council to establish a Local Development Order (LDO) to make the most of the future site. The plan envisages 810,000m2 of advanced manufacturing, green energy creation and logistics floorspace. It estimates the creation of approximately 7000 new job opportunities generating over £500 million for the local economy, something I’m sure we will all be glad to hear.

With the environment taking increasing importance on the national and global stage, the decommissioning of Ratcliffe-On-Soar is vital for Britain’s goal of carbon neutrality by 2050 and marks a revolutionary step in the makeup of Britain’s energy production.

Our commitment to renewable energy is evident at HWA, where we have a long-standing involvement in PV installation. Starting in 2012, we have assessed numerous buildings to support our clients in their preparations for solar panel installation. These buildings encompass a range of types, such as residential, industrial, and commercial structures. Our most recent projects have included solar panel installations on public buildings for Dorset Council.

Aside from this, HWA’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions is mainly seen through the buildings we design, whether that be by using timber framework instead of concrete or simply by making sure the construction process is as efficient as possible.

We are determined to play our part in making Britain a greener place.