The US Energy Information Administration (EIA) has released figures detailing Colorado’s lowered position with regards to US state coal production for 2015. Previously a top 10 producer, Colorado is now ranked eleventh (below New Mexico and above Ohio, 19 679 short t and 17 041 short t respectively), having produced 18 879 short t in 2015.
The Denver Post reported that reduced exports, closure of mines and coal-fired power plants, and increased environmental legislation were behind the decreased demand and the subsequent ranking slip. The ranking comes despite President Donald Trump’s reported commitment to reviving the American coal industry.