April 22, 2026 - An analysis by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air indicates that a forecasted resurgence in coal use has not occurred despite a global energy crisis. The report, drawing on near-real-time electricity data from major power markets, found global coal-fired generation was unchanged in March, declining outside of China while increasing modestly within it. 

Global seaborne coal transport volumes declined during the period, reaching a low not seen since 2021. Overall fossil fuel power generation decreased compared to the previous year, with gas-fired generation seeing a more pronounced drop. This trend unfolded despite significant disruption to fuel supplies and soaring prices caused by the blockade of a key shipping route.

Renewable energy sources substantially mitigated the crisis's impact. Solar power generation increased significantly in March across the analyzed countries, while wind energy also saw considerable growth. The capacity for solar and wind power added globally in 2025 alone is estimated to be more than double the power equivalent lost from the shipping route's closure.

Coal-fired generation fell most sharply in several major economies in March. The report suggests this is partly because coal plants were already heavily utilized prior to the crisis, leaving limited capacity for further increases. Although some nations announced plans to reopen or extend the operation of coal plants, no such reactivations or delays in closures occurred in March.

The economic argument for investing in coal is weakening, according to the analysis, as rising transport costs during the crisis make renewables more competitive. Several European nations are accelerating electrification and renewable adoption to reduce dependence on imported fuels, a pattern emerging worldwide that links energy security to clean energy. Governments are scheduled to meet to discuss transitioning away from fossil fuels.