Electricity Generation

Coal is predominantly used to generate electric power worldwide. Coal-fired power plants burn bituminous coal, subbituminous coal, or lignite to produce heat, which converts water into high-pressure steam. This steam drives turbines to generate electricity.

In 2019, about 35% of the world’s electricity was generated by coal-fired power plants.

By 2022, 68% of global coal use was dedicated to electricity generation, primarily as thermal coal.

Steel Industry

Certain types of bituminous coal, known as metallurgical coal, are essential for steel production.

Metallurgical coal is high in carbon and low in moisture, ash, sulfur, and phosphorus.

It plays a critical role in processes like coke production and blast furnace operations.

Cement Industry

Coal is a key component in cement production, providing the energy required to heat kilns and enabling the production of clinker, the main ingredient in cement.

Chemical Industry

Coal serves as a feedstock for producing various chemicals, including carbon fibers, foams, tars, and synthetic fuels.

Innovative Power Solutions

Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC) plants represent a technological advancement in coal usage.

Instead of direct combustion, coal is gasified to produce syngas, which is burned in a gas turbine to generate electricity.

IGCC plants offer efficiencies of up to 94% and emit significantly less pollution compared to traditional methods.

Other Applications

Home and Commercial Heating: Coal is used for heating homes and businesses in certain regions.

Industrial Applications: Including the production of medicines, synthetic petroleum fuels, and more.