What is Coal?

Coal is the most important fuel producing electricity in around the world, but it is also the most controversial. As the greatest source of carbon dioxide of all fuels, environmentalists say it is critical to reduce the world's dependence on it in order to stem global warming.

Coal is a fossil fuel, and a sedimentary rock that is formed by geological action over millions of years. It has been used for various purposes since at least the Bronze Age more than 4,000 years ago. Today it is primarily used as a fuel source for power; power plants burn coal to make steam, which then turn turbines. It is also used for coking for metallurgical applications. The high temperatures created by the use of baked coal, known as coke, give steel its strength and flexibility. The paper and concrete industries also use coal in manufacturing.

While coal is contentious, coal consumption is growing. According to a recent U.S. Energy Department study, world coal consumption could increase by 65 percent between 2005 and 2030. Its share of world energy consumption could increase over that period from 27 percent to 29 percent. 

Some Facts About Coal

• Coal is primarily used as a solid fuel to produce electricity and heat through combustion.  
• World coal consumption was about 6.75 billion short tons in 2006 and is expected to increase 48% to 9.98 billion short tons by 2030.
• China produced 2.38 billion tons in 2006 and 68.7% of China's electricity comes from coal.
• India produced about 447.3 million tons in 2006.
• USA consumes about 14% of the world’s total, using 90% of it for generation of electricity.