14:57 - 10.09.2026

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September 10, Fineko/abc.az. Global coal consumption is set to reach an all-time high of 8.94 billion tonnes this year, growing by 1.2%, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). The revised forecast reverses previous expectations of a decline, driven by surging natural gas prices and severe El Niño-induced cooling demand.

Disruptions to LNG shipments through the Strait of Hormuz have pushed gas prices sharply higher, prompting key markets across Europe, China, South Korea, and Japan to switch to spare coal-fired capacity.

Additionally, dry weather conditions reduced hydroelectric power generation in countries like India and Vietnam. The IEA notes that unless Middle Eastern energy flows stabilize, global coal demand could set another historical record in 2027.