Record Coal Consumption in 2024, but IEA Predicts Stagnation from 2027

Record Coal Consumption in 2024, but IEA Predicts Stagnation from 2027

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Record Coal Consumption in 2024, but IEA Predicts Stagnation from 2027

Global coal consumption hit a record 8.77 billion tons in 2024, a 1% rise from 2023, with China accounting for 30% more than the rest of the world; however, the IEA predicts stagnation from 2027 due to increased renewable energy in China.

German
Germany
Climate ChangeChinaEnergy SecurityEuropeRenewable EnergyEnergy TransitionIeaCoal Consumption
Internationale Energieagentur Iea
What were the key factors contributing to the record-high global coal consumption in 2024, and what are the immediate implications for climate change?
In 2024, global coal consumption reached a record high of 8.77 billion tons, a 1% increase from 2023. China, the largest consumer, accounted for 4.9 billion tons, also a 1% increase, and consumed 30% more than the rest of the world combined. This surge is attributed to increased electric vehicle sales and industrial electrification in China.
How do the contrasting trends in coal consumption between China and other rapidly developing economies shape the future outlook for global coal demand?
While China's coal consumption is rising due to increased electricity demand from electric vehicles and industrial shifts, the International Energy Agency (IEA) projects that this trend will reverse as solar and wind power capacity rapidly expands. This decrease in Chinese coal use is expected to lead to a decline in global coal consumption.
What are the long-term economic and environmental consequences of underestimating the societal costs associated with carbon emissions from coal, and what policy changes could mitigate these?
The IEA forecasts that global coal demand may stagnate from 2027, driven by China's renewable energy expansion offsetting rising demand in India, Indonesia, and Vietnam. However, the slowing pace of coal phase-out in Europe and continued investment in existing coal infrastructure pose challenges to a rapid global transition away from coal.

Cognitive Concepts

1/5

Framing Bias

The article presents a balanced view by highlighting both the increase in global coal consumption in 2024 and the projected stagnation and decline in future years. While the focus on the German coal phase-out might suggest a slightly pro-environmental framing, the overall presentation acknowledges conflicting trends. The headline is not provided, thus impacting the analysis of framing.

1/5

Language Bias

The language used is largely neutral and factual. The descriptions of coal as "klimaschädlich" (climate-damaging) are accurate and not overly charged. While terms like "Kohleausstieg" (coal phase-out) have inherent connotations, they're appropriate in the context of describing established policy.

3/5

Bias by Omission

The article focuses primarily on the increase in coal consumption in China and the decrease in Europe, while mentioning other countries' consumption briefly. It could benefit from a more comprehensive global perspective, including a detailed breakdown of coal consumption in other major coal-consuming nations beyond India, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Additionally, mentioning specific policies driving coal consumption changes in various countries would add valuable context.

1/5

Gender Bias

The article uses gender-neutral language ("Forscher*innen") in one instance, demonstrating awareness of inclusive language. However, further attention to gender balance in sourcing could enhance the piece. For example, mentioning experts' genders when citing studies would add transparency.

Sustainable Development Goals

Climate Action Negative
Direct Relevance

The article highlights a record-high coal consumption in 2024, driven mainly by China's increasing electricity demand for electric vehicles and industrial processes. While China is also rapidly expanding solar and wind power, the overall increase in coal use globally, especially in countries like India, Indonesia, and Vietnam, significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and exacerbates climate change. The fact that coal is particularly climate-damaging, releasing more CO2 per kilowatt-hour than other fossil fuels, further strengthens this negative impact. The slowing pace of coal phase-out in Europe also indicates a continued challenge in mitigating climate change.