中文
The coal industry in Wyoming, a longstanding leader in US coal production, is grappling with an uncertain future characterized by a downward trend.
Despite a temporary boost in coal demand and output due to COVID-19 and geopolitical tensions, such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the overall trajectory for coal in Wyoming is on a decline, local media reported.
This is evident in the significant drop in coal output since its peak in 2008, with further decreases observed in 2023.
Wyoming has dominated the coal market since 1986, but it is now being challenged by various factors. The pandemic led to a fall in power consumption, which directly affected coal demand. Albeit with a brief recovery in 2021 and 2022 driven by high gas prices, the situation in 2023 saw gas prices moderating, resulting in a decrease in coal usage.
It indicates the non-sustainable reliance on coal in Wyoming while global events have temporarily boosted the state's economy.
The coal industry encounters stiff competition from cheaper renewables, contributing to the shutdown of coal-fired power plants across the US. Despite political efforts to slow this shift, utilities are increasingly turning to more cost-effective and environmentally friendly renewable energy sources.
The drop in natural gas prices, after a surge in 2022, has made it challenging for Wyoming coal to compete. The reliance on coal for electricity generation has slumped, with renewables like wind and solar to surpass coal-fired power in 2024.
Although the coal industry in Wyoming experienced an upward trend with rising demand during hot summers and cold winters, as well as high coal prices, it still faces fundamental challenges such as its contribution to carbon dioxide emissions and an aging coal fleet.
While there is some hope with advances in carbon capture technology and government investments in innovative projects, commercial success remains limited.
Railway constraints also limited Western mines to leverage the increased demand. As coal plants continue to close and coal output becomes more costly, Wyoming must confront these changes and explore new opportunities in the energy sector.
(Writing by Riley Liang Editing by Emma Yang)
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