I’ve been thinking about what role coal can play in an energy security strategy, first I don’t think there is a need to reverse the coal closure policy by 2025 – its essentially a fait-accompli at this point 1/10
Perhaps a strategic restart of coal this winter can help keep prices down by reducing exposure to international gas prices, there are three challenges here: Can we restart the closed or closing plant? Is coal actually cheap? Do the coal plant have enough hours to run in? 2/10
West Burton Closed two units last year, Drax and Ratcliffe are signalling to close some units ahead of the start of the CM delivery year – these could presumably be delayed over the winter – This total about 3.2GW 3/10
On DSR no evidence was submitted to show DSR had significant Capital requirements which would require long-term agreements
But the commission welcomes GBs commitment to allow all participants to access longer-term agreements if they can demonstrate the required capital spend