Special reports

Phil Hewitt, Director of UK energy industry analysts, EnAppSys, provides insight into the government’s decision to phase-out coal-fired power plants by 2025.

Slowing economic growth and demand for energy and tightening environmental restrictions are cutting China’s appetite for coal. But it is still likely to remain the dominant fuel for years to come.

The UK is facing a electricity shortage next winter as the government’s carbon tax forces coal-fired power plants to close early.

Despite increases in metallurgical coal production at the majors, cuts in high-cost production elsewhere could soon balance the market. Meanwhile, thermal coal is showing signs of life in Asia, although doom-and-gloom still clouds the North American market.

A revamped Coaltrans World Coal Leaders Network came to Barcelona to ask what the next few years hold in store for the global coal industry.

Russell Taylor looks at why the Australian government is right in supporting the coal industry.

Looking back at the history and its current work of the IEA Clean Coal Centre as its celebrates its 40th birthday.

Coal dust creation is a pervasive hazard of underground mining, harmful to both people and machines. Controlling it is therefore a key priority.

World leaders should recognise the potential to improve existing power plants and prioritise the measures to help deploy all low-emission technologies at COP21 in Paris.

Russell Taylor explains why the Bengalla sale was a good move for Rio Tinto and New Hope Corp.

Mike Sherman, RMI, UK, looks at how new sensor technology can be used to improve mine efficiency and safety.

Lyn Bates, Ajax Equipment Ltd, UK, explains how companies can improve the discharge of coal from hoppers and bins.

A simple scripted solution applying HARP modelling adds value to the overall mine planning process at the Glendell coal mine.

Larry Atkinson, Joy Global, USA, details the advancements in conveyor drive and control technologies and increased idler capacities that have led belt conveyors to achieve record production levels.

The Ukrainian coal industry was once seen as a path away from dependence on Russian gas imports. But following the conflict in Dontesk and Lugnask, the outlook for the industry is bleak.