U.K. Solar-Power Output Surpasses Coal for the First Time

The U.K. generated for the first time more power from the sun than by burning coal, underscoring the global shift toward green energy aimed at combating climate change.

Throughout May, the often-overcast nation produced 55 percent more solar power than energy from coal, according to an e-mailed report by London-based Enappsys, which monitors the U.K.’s electricity market. Power from the sun topped out at 1.38 terawatt-hours compared with 0.89 terawatt-hours from coal.

The U.K. plans to switch off its coal-fired power plants by 2025. Year-on-year power generated from coal was down 76 percent in the second quarter, Enappsys said. During ...