Global Coal Consumption Hits Record High in 2024, Defying Climate Goals

The International Energy Agency reports surging coal demand driven by China, India, and Indonesia, as 2024 is set to be the hottest year on record.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) forecasts global coal consumption to surpass 8.9 billion tonnes in 2024, marking the third consecutive annual record.
China remains the largest coal consumer, burning 4.9 billion tonnes in 2024, accounting for over a third of global usage, despite significant investments in renewable energy.
Emerging economies like India and Indonesia are driving increased coal demand, offsetting declines in the U.S. and European Union, where reductions have slowed significantly.
The IEA now predicts coal demand will peak in 2027, revising earlier estimates that projected a decline starting in 2023, as electricity needs continue to grow globally.
Scientists warn that the record coal use exacerbates greenhouse gas emissions, threatening climate goals as 2024 is projected to be the hottest year in recorded history.