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Energy Markets Outlook: Coal

• Energy markets outlook: chapter 6 - coal (1058KB)

A range of scenarios can be postulated for demand for coal in the UK over the next decades. These are driven by assumptions about levels of coal fired power generation. These demand scenarios provide an opportunity for indigenous production of coal, although issues such as planning consents in particular for surface mines and rail infrastructure also need to be considered. In all reasonable scenarios, however, there is a significant reliance on imports. Given the abundance of proven reserves of coal globally, the future use of coal is unlikely to be limited by resource availability, but there are a number of international issues and risks that could affect future prices. Within the UK, availability of ports and rail infrastructure as at present could constrain import rates.