Britain uses coal to power its lights

(RT) ⸻ The UK's National Grid has asked coal-fired plants to be ready to generate power for the first time this winter, as a late-season cold snap has caused a shortage in power supply. The energy grid operator has requested three more units to prepare to generate after turning to Electricite de France on Monday. Coal-powered reserve units have been readied for use several times throughout the winter, but this is the first time they have been needed. Low wind conditions, high demand due to severe winter cold, and strikes by power-station workers in France have created a 'perfect storm' of an energy crisis.