Full Breakdown
Los Angeles Ends Coal Power: A Milestone in Clean Energy Transition
12/5/2025, 11:02:21 AM
Transition from Coal to Clean Energy
Los Angeles has officially ceased receiving coal-powered electricity from its last remaining source, the Intermountain Generating Station in Utah. This decision was announced by city officials on December 4, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the city's commitment to a clean energy future. Mayor Karen Bass described this moment as a "defining moment for the City of Los Angeles," emphasizing that the divestment from coal is not merely about discontinuing coal use but about fostering a clean energy economy that benefits all residents. The city aims to achieve 100% clean energy by 2035, focusing on investments in solar, wind, battery energy storage, and hydrogen technologies.
Historical Context and Progress
California has been gradually reducing its reliance on coal, which constituted only 2.2% of the state's electricity in 2024, according to the California Energy Commission. The Intermountain Power Project was responsible for 11% of Los Angeles' energy supply last year. The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (DWP) previously divested from the Navajo Generating Station in Arizona in 2016. DWP Chief Executive Janisse Quiñones noted that over 60% of the city’s energy now comes from renewable sources, a significant increase from two decades ago when renewables accounted for about 3% of the energy mix.
Future Energy Plans
While Los Angeles has ended its coal dependency, the city will still utilize natural gas-fired units at Intermountain. These units are designed to operate on a blend of natural gas and up to 30% green hydrogen, with plans to transition to 100% green hydrogen in the future. The DWP has also approved an $800 million plan to convert two units of the Scattergood Generating Station in Playa del Rey to run on a similar fuel mixture, aiming for complete hydrogen operation as supply increases.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the progress, some energy and environmental groups have criticized the DWP's plans to continue using fossil fuel infrastructure. They argue that the focus should be on proven clean technologies rather than prolonging the life of natural gas facilities.
Celebrating the Transition
The cessation of coal power in Los Angeles has been celebrated as a significant achievement, especially in light of current federal policies that favor fossil fuels. Evan Gillespie, a partner at the decarbonization nonprofit Industrious Labs, remarked on the historic nature of this transition, stating, “If every utility, if every city, had the courage and the leadership that this city has had, today the world would be a very different place.”
Conclusion
Los Angeles' decision to end coal power represents a pivotal step in its journey toward a sustainable energy future. As the city continues to invest in renewable energy sources, it sets a precedent for other cities and utilities across the nation and the world.
