A new report suggests that transforming disused coalmines into solar energy farms could generate up to 300 gigawatts of renewable electricity globally by 2030, offering a powerful symbol of the world’s shift from fossil fuels to clean energy. The figure, which represents nearly a third of the current global solar capacity, was published this week by a consortium of energy researchers and environmental policy experts.
The study identifies thousands of decommissioned coal sites around the world—from the Appalachian region in the United States to parts of India, China, South Africa and Australia—as prime real estate for utility-scale solar installations. These locations often benefit from flat terrain, existing grid infrastructure, and ample sunlight—factors that make them attractive for solar developers seeking to avoid the legal and environmental hurdles of building on untouched land.
The environmental case is particularly compelling. Many abandoned mines pose ongoing hazards, including soil contamination, subsidence and water pollution. Repurposing them as clean energy sites not only removes these risks but also helps repair landscapes scarred by decades of extraction. The conversion would also allow former coal communities to re-engage with the energy economy on more sustainable terms.
In Europe, several pilot projects are already under way. In Germany’s Ruhr Valley, old lignite pits have been turned into solar farms, while in the UK, solar panels are being trialled on former colliery lands in Yorkshire and Wales. China has also begun converting depleted coalfields in Shanxi Province into renewable hubs as part of its national decarbonisation drive.
The economic potential is equally significant. According to the report, investing in solar infrastructure on former coal sites could generate over one million new jobs globally, particularly in regions that have suffered from the decline of coal mining. These opportunities could offer a lifeline to communities still grappling with unemployment and economic stagnation long after the last mine has closed.
However, challenges remain. Many of the targeted mines require environmental remediation before solar infrastructure can be safely installed. In addition, property ownership and regulatory complexity can delay project development, especially in jurisdictions where land rights and environmental liabilities are unclear.
Financing is also a key hurdle. While global investment in solar energy has surged in recent years, developers may be wary of the risks associated with brownfield sites. The report urges governments to introduce clearer frameworks and incentives to support reclamation projects, including tax breaks, fast-track permitting and public-private partnerships.
Despite the obstacles, momentum is building. The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) has endorsed the concept of “just transitions” in energy, where environmental goals are paired with social and economic recovery for affected communities. Turning coalmines into clean power stations fits neatly into this philosophy—marrying climate action with economic justice.
As the 2030 deadline for global climate targets draws nearer, policymakers are being urged to think not just about how to expand renewables, but where. Former coalmines, once symbols of industrial might and environmental damage, may now offer the perfect foundation for a cleaner and more equitable energy future.
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