What is coal and how do we use it?

Different types of coal have different uses. Steam coal - also known as thermal coal - is mainly used in power generation. Coking coal - also known as metallurgical coal - is mainly used in steel production. Other important users of coal include alumina refineries, paper manufacturers, and the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. read more

Coal has been used throughout history for heating and cooking with evidence of such use dating back to Native American times and the Roman Empire. Coal is an abundant and widespread fossil fuel that is easier to recover and transport than volatile substances such as natural gas or petroleum products. read more