Mines Ramp Up Production Amid Record Breaking Heatwave

China's Coal Output Surges 28% in July

Mines ramp up production amid record-breaking heatwave

China's coal output rose 28% year-on-year in July, as mines ramped up production to ensure steady supply during the country's record-breaking heatwave.

Increase across all types of coal

According to the latest data from China's National Bureau of Statistics, the country's output of all types of coal increased by 28% year-on-year to reach 390.37 million tonnes in July.

This increase was driven by a surge in production of raw coal, which rose by 29.4% year-on-year to 360.97 million tonnes.

Meeting soaring demand

The increase in coal output is in line with China's efforts to boost domestic energy supplies and ensure stable power generation during the summer months, when demand for electricity is typically high.

China's coal demand is estimated to have increased by about 5.5% in the first half of 2023, driven by a comparison effect with H1 2022, when Covid-related lockdowns led to a decline in industrial activity.

Conclusion:

The surge in China's coal output in July highlights the country's continued reliance on coal as a primary energy source. However, as China transitions to a low-carbon economy, it is expected to gradually reduce its dependence on coal and increase its use of renewable energy sources.