Trump Officials Vow to Keep All US Coal Plants Running

Core Viewpoint - The Trump administration is committed to maintaining and reviving US coal power plants to meet rising electricity demand and support the industrial base, contrasting with analysts who are skeptical about coal's future due to competition from natural gas and renewables [1][2]. Group 1: Administration's Strategy - The Trump administration aims for a "100% open" coal policy, emphasizing the need to keep existing coal plants operational [1]. - The Energy Department is allocating up to $525 million for upgrading or building coal-fired power plants, despite criticism from environmental groups [4]. - The Interior Department is opening more federal land for coal leasing in states like North Dakota, Montana, and Wyoming, with 17 gigawatts of coal generation now available that would not have been otherwise [6]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - US coal consumption has been declining, with coal's share of electricity generation falling from over 50% to about 17% in 2025, and expected to drop to 15% this year [9]. - A recent increase in electricity demand has temporarily boosted coal production, with coal generation rising by 13% last year due to higher natural gas prices [10]. - Utilities are delaying the retirement of coal plants, supported by federal orders to keep some plants running [10]. Group 3: Industry Perspectives - Executives from coal and utility companies express concerns about overdependence on natural gas and emphasize the need to keep electricity prices stable [11]. - The immediate focus is on ensuring sufficient electricity supply for data centers critical to AI development [12]. - There are discussions about the potential impact of a lawsuit against major asset managers regarding coal-related assets, which could threaten coal companies' ability to raise capital [14].