Coal Mine-to-Solar Conversions Could Add 15% to Global Solar Capacity by 2030

The Global Energy Monitor (GEM) report titled “Bright Side of the Mine” estimates that over 300 recently closed surface coal mines could support around 103 GW of photovoltaic (PV) solar capacity. Additionally, 127 upcoming mine closures could add another 185 GW, totaling nearly 300 GW of solar potential.

This capacity is equivalent to powering a country the size of Germany and represents about 15% of the current global installed solar capacity, highlighting a major opportunity for renewable energy expansion.

What Are the Geographic Hotspots for Coal-to-Solar Transitions?

China leads with 90 operational coal mine-to-solar projects totaling 14 GW, plus 46 more projects in planning with 9 GW capacity. Other major coal producers like Australia, the US, Indonesia, and India hold nearly 75% of the global potential for such conversions.

These countries’ vast coal mining footprints offer a strategic advantage to accelerate solar development on degraded lands, reducing conflicts over land acquisition for renewable energy projects.

Did you know?
China’s coal mine-to-solar conversion projects already total 14 GW in operation, demonstrating the feasibility and scale of such initiatives in major coal-producing nations.

How Many Jobs Could Coal-to-Solar Projects Create?

The report estimates that coal-to-solar transitions could generate approximately 259,700 permanent jobs and 317,500 temporary construction jobs globally. This workforce expansion surpasses the number of coal industry jobs expected to be lost by 2035, offering a promising pathway for economic transition in coal-dependent regions.

What Challenges Could Slow Solar Development on Former Mines?

One major hurdle is land ownership complexity. When coal mines close, properties often change hands multiple times or fall into bankruptcy, making it difficult to identify and secure land titles for solar projects.

Additionally, if coal companies reclaim land post-mining, solar development must wait until bonds are released and rights revert to original owners, which could be mining firms, landholding companies, or community owners. These legal and administrative challenges could delay project timelines.

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Why Is Repurposing Coal Mines for Solar Important?

Hailey Deres, a researcher at GEM, highlights that repurposing degraded lands like coal mines can reduce conflicts over land use and provide new economic benefits to former coal communities worldwide. This approach aligns with global renewable energy targets and sustainable development goals.

Converting coal mines to solar farms also addresses environmental remediation by giving new life to lands damaged by mining, which contributes to climate change mitigation.