October 1, 2026 - U.S. coal exports increased in the second quarter of 2026, led by stronger steam coal shipments, according to the Energy Information Administration’s newly released Quarterly Coal Report.

Exports totaled 26.8 million short tons, up 13.3% from the first quarter. Steam coal exports climbed 25.1% to 13 million short tons, while metallurgical coal exports increased 4.2% to 13.9 million short tons. The average export price was $110.68 per short ton.

Domestic coal production totaled 125.4 million short tons, down 4.9% from the preceding quarter and 2.2% from the second quarter of 2025. Western production accounted for approximately 49.2% of the national total.

U.S. coal consumption declined to 88.8 million short tons, falling 15.5% from the first quarter and 10.2% year over year. Electric utilities accounted for approximately 90.5% of total consumption.

Coal inventories increased 5.6% to 145.5 million short tons. Electric power sector stocks rose to 118.3 million short tons from 110.9 million at the end of the first quarter.

EIA identifies the 2025 and 2026 figures as preliminary.