Coal in the Global Energy Scene

Abstract

World primary energy demand is expected to continue to grow steadily, as it has over the last two decades. To meet this need, the world will have to make the best possible use of the various energy sources available, including coal, the most abundant and affordable of the fossil fuels. Coal is often the only alternative when low-cost, cleaner energy sources are inadequate to meet growing energy demand. Developing countries use about 55% of the world's coal today; this share is expected to grow to 65% over the next 15 years. In the year 2050, coal will account for more than 34% of the world's primary energy demand. The aim of the present article is to investigate the contribution of coal to global energy demand and coal perspectives for several countries.