Overview

• President Trump has signed executive orders to revive the coal industry, designating it as critical to meet growing energy needs from AI and data centers.
• Coal-fired power plants now generate only 15% of U.S. electricity, down from 50% in 2011, reflecting a decades-long decline driven by cheaper energy alternatives.
• Energy analysts project that even extending the life of coal plants would contribute only a small fraction of the power needed for AI-driven data centers by 2040.
• The new orders include deregulation measures allowing the Department of Energy to keep unprofitable coal plants operational, potentially increasing costs for consumers.
• Experts argue that renewable energy and natural gas remain more cost-effective and environmentally sustainable options to meet future electricity demands.