Gas-protesters ascend Staythorpe chimneys; four arrested as police respond
Eight Greenpeace activists scale two 75-meter chimneys at Staythorpe Power Station near Newark; four protesters descend and are arrested for trespassing as authorities monitor the scene.
A group of environmental protesters scaled to the tops of two 75-meter chimneys at Staythorpe Power Station near Newark in Nottinghamshire in a demonstration over the role of natural gas in electricity prices. Greenpeace said eight activists took part in the action, which focused on the impact of gas-fired generation on energy costs and emissions. Nottinghamshire Police said officers were at the scene and that four protesters had descended, were arrested for trespassing, and were taken into custody.
The Staythorpe facility, owned by RWE, remained fully operational as the situation unfolded. A spokesperson for RWE said the power station was producing power and that safety remained the priority for everyone on site, including staff, contractors, and protesters. The company also noted it was coordinating with the relevant authorities to ensure all necessary safety measures were in place. Nottinghamshire Police said officers were continuing to engage with the protesters who remained atop the chimneys.
The protest at Staythorpe is part of broader climate and energy-justice activism aimed at drawing attention to gas in electricity markets. Greenpeace reiterated that eight activists participated in the climb and reiterated its call for reduced dependence on gas in power generation and greater emphasis on alternative, lower-emission energy sources. The station’s operator and local police emphasized that life on site continued safely and that security protocols were in place while the investigation and engagement with participants continued. Officials did not report injuries, and authorities warned against trespassing while stating they would continue to monitor the situation and facilitate a safe resolution for all involved.
Staythorpe Power Station sits within a national debate over energy mix, gas prices, and the role of fossil fuels in keeping the lights on. While the protest drew attention to concerns about price formation in electricity markets, authorities stressed the immediate need to maintain uninterrupted power supply and the safety of workers and demonstrators. Greenpeace and other environmental groups have increasingly used high-profile actions at energy facilities to highlight climate concerns, even as regulators and industry leaders emphasize the complexities of balancing energy reliability, affordability, and emissions targets.