How can we repurpose retired coal power plants?

Communities across the nation are exploring new and innovative ways to utilize emerging energy technologies to repurpose retired coal power plants. These projects provide a pathway to a sustainable, economically viable future for energy communities, preserve jobs and provide clean energy to meet America’s increasing energy demands.

How much solar power can a coal mine hold?

The first-time analysis shows that over 300 surface coal mines recently out of commission could house around 103 GW of photovoltaic (PV) solar capacity, and upcoming closures of large operations could host an additional 185 GW of solar across 127 sites (see Methodology).

What is coal to solar energy development?

Coal to Solar Solar energy development requires sites with favorable, sunny potential, but is less site-sensitive than wind energy.

Could solar power be built on abandoned coal mines?

These abandoned coal mines are predisposed to renewables siting with grid-adjacent and even pre-cleared acreage. If these potential solar projects came to fruition, the world could build almost 300 GW of solar capacity on mined out lands by the end of 2030.

Are coal mines repurposing solar?

The coal mines identified for repurposing between 2020 and 2030 offer a wide range of solar opportunities. About one-third of the 438 coal mine sites are suitable for community-scale solar projects, whereas the majority are capable of supporting larger, utility-scale solar developments.

Can a solar farm be built on a coal mine?

While building a solar farm on a coal mine could require a slightly higher LCOE compared to an ideal greenfield project, public subsidies and incentives (like tax credits in the U.S.) can create economics that outperform greenfield projects.