Plan to keep coal power stations running in bid to wean Britain off its dependence on Russian gas

 The Government could turn back to coal despite promises to phase it out to reduce the UK’s reliance on the dirty fuel.

Officials are talking to EDF, the French energy giant, to see if it could keep the West Burton A plant in Nottinghamshire going. It had been planned to be shuttered by September to help the UK reach its target of not burning any coal for electricity by next October. 

Set for closure: The UK Government is talking to French energy giant EDF to see if it could keep the West Burton A plant in Nottinghamshire (pictured) going

Gas has become problematic in recent months. Once affordable, prices have spiked as much as 20-fold compared to two years ago.

Russia supplies a massive proportion of the gas burned in Europe. 

The UK sources a lot less of its gas from Russia, but pays the same prices as those in Europe so is still impacted by the war in Ukraine.

The Government is looking for alternatives to gas that can help the continent reduce its reliance on Russian imports.

Experts say renewables are the best option, but coal also looks more attractive than in the past.