Coal is still important as America’s energy needs soar

Coal isn’t disappearing. Its use globally hit a record last year. Since the turn of the century, coal demand has doubled .

The world needs a new political discourse on coal. This is not a fuel that is going to be phased out or a technology left behind. It's important for energy security and affordability.

The idea that the West would lead the developing world away from coal is misguided. Europe’s attempted dash to renewable power has left it energy insecure and home to high electricity prices. While Europe struggles with deindustrialization, Asia is leaning on coal to tackle energy poverty and industrialize. Nowhere is that truer than in China.

While many countries are planning coal power projects, China is the elephant in the room. China produces and uses more coal than the rest