Los Angeles Ends Coal Power – A Clean Energy Future
- The City of Los Angeles has severed ties with coal-fired electricity,marking a meaningful step towards its 2035 clean energy goal.This transition impacts energy sources, costs, and the city's...
- Los Angeles officials announced on Thursday, May 9, 2024, that the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (DWP) has ceased receiving electricity from the Intermountain Generating Station...
- The decision follows years of planning and investment in choice energy sources.
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Los Angeles Officially Ends Coal Power Reliance
Table of Contents
The City of Los Angeles has severed ties with coal-fired electricity,marking a meaningful step towards its 2035 clean energy goal.This transition impacts energy sources, costs, and the city’s commitment to combating climate change.
What happened: L.A. Cuts Ties with Intermountain Generating station
Los Angeles officials announced on Thursday, May 9, 2024, that the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (DWP) has ceased receiving electricity from the Intermountain Generating Station in Utah, its last remaining coal source.Mayor Karen Bass hailed the move as a “defining moment” for the city, emphasizing its role in building a clean energy economy.
The decision follows years of planning and investment in choice energy sources. The DWP previously divested from the Navajo Generating Station in Arizona in 2016, demonstrating a long-term commitment to phasing out coal.
Why It Matters: Climate impact and energy Future
Electricity generation is a major contributor to climate change, and coal is the most polluting method. Eliminating coal power significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions and improves air quality. This move aligns with California’s broader efforts to decarbonize its energy sector and achieve aspiring climate goals.
The transition to cleaner energy sources is not merely environmental; it’s also economic. Investing in renewable technologies creates jobs and fosters innovation in the clean energy sector. Mayor Bass specifically highlighted the potential benefits for all Los Angeles residents.
The Numbers: Coal’s Declining Role in California
Coal’s contribution to California’s electricity mix has been steadily decreasing. In 2024, coal accounted for only 2.2% of the state’s total electricity generation, according to the California Energy Commission. The Intermountain Power Project previously supplied 11% of Los Angeles’ energy needs last year.
| Year | Coal Percentage of California Electricity generation |
|---|---|
| 2020 | 3.8% |
| 2021 | 2.9% |
| 2022 | 2.5% |
| 2023 | 2.3% |
| 2024 | 2.2% |
Source: California Energy Commission
What’s Next: The Path to 100% Clean Energy
The DWP is focusing on expanding its portfolio of renewable energy sources, including solar, wind, battery energy