Global Coal Demand Hits Record High in 2024 as Renewable Energy Rises

The International Energy Agency projects coal consumption to stabilize by 2027, driven by clean energy growth and regional shifts in demand.

The global demand for coal reached a historic 8.77 billion tonnes in 2024, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA).
Despite record consumption, the IEA predicts coal demand will plateau by 2027 due to the rapid expansion of renewable energy technologies.
China remains the largest consumer, burning one-third of the world's coal, while emerging economies like India, Indonesia, and Vietnam continue to drive demand.
Advanced economies have peaked in coal consumption, with declines expected as they pursue ambitious energy policies and alternative energy sources.
Weather patterns and growing electricity needs, including for transportation and data centers, could cause short-term fluctuations in coal demand.