In a historic agreement reached at the Group of Seven meeting in Turin, energy ministers have committed to phasing out coal-fired power plants by the first half of the 2030s. This decision comes on the heels of the world’s pledge at the U.N.’s COP28 climate summit to transition away from coal, oil, and gas.
British Nuclear and Renewables Minister Andrew Bowie hailed the agreement as “historic,” confirming that the G7 has agreed to shut down coal-fired power plants within the specified time frame. A European source also indicated that the G7 is likely to commit to closing the plants by the first half of the 2030s.
The agreement, outlined in the latest G7 draft, aims to phase out existing unabated coal power generation in order to limit the temperature rise to 1.5°C. Italian Environment and Energy Security Minister Gilberto Pichetto Fratin emphasized the importance of the agreement, stating that while there is a technical agreement in place, political aspects are still being worked on.
U.N. climate chief Simon Stiell urged the G7 countries to use their political influence and resources to end fossil fuel use, emphasizing the need for bolder climate actions. The talks in Turin also address other critical issues such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, and reducing plastic production to combat pollution.
As the G7 countries strive to meet their emission reduction targets and tackle climate change, the world is watching to see how they will follow through on their commitments and pave the way for a more sustainable future.