Coal's Unwelcome Resurgence The latest energy crisis unfolding in the Middle East is set to have far reaching consequences for global markets, but one of the most unexpected outcomes is a surge in coal demand.
According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), coal use will reach a record high this year, driven by ongoing trade constraints through the Strait of Hormuz.
At first glance, this might seem like a temporary response to an energy pinch. Countries forced to turn back to coal are filling a gap left by depleting oil inventories and expanding renewable energy capacity.