The case for gas: national energy transition in postwar Britain

Until the late 1960s, Britain powered its homes, industries, and empire with coal. Coal consumption reached its peak in the postwar period, but by the end of the century, the national energy landscape had dramatically changed. Over 90% of households used gas-fired systems and Britain was a net exporter of natural gas.

This talk explores the national transition from coal to gas. It illuminates the revival of the gas industry at a time of relative decline; the changing relationship between gas and coal; the role of women in energy transition; and the connection between energy and environmental politics in twentieth century Britain. This history continues to shape national fuel and power and prospective transition to the present day.

    Dr Kathy Davies is an early career historian working on social and political histories of energy, environment, and sustainability in Britain. She is the current Archives By-Fellow at Churchill College, University of Cambridge, the new Postdoctoral Visiting Fellow in Environment and Sustainability at the British Library, and co-Chair of History Lab Plus, Institute of Historical Research. Kathy has a background in multimethod and interdisciplinary research, and in public and policy engagement. She is an alumnus of Sheffield Hallam University.