Global Coal Consumption is Still Rising

What We’re Showing

In this graphic, we show global coal consumption by region from 1965 to 2020, according to data from the Energy Institute. 

Key Takeaways 

• Global coal consumption surpassed 164 exajoules for the first time ever in 2023.
• China is by far the largest consumer of coal, accounting for 56% of the world’s total.
• In 2023, India exceeded the combined consumption of Europe and North America for the first time.