The Department of Energy recently announced new leadership for the reestablished National Coal Council (NCC). The NCC will be chaired by Jim Grech, president and CEO, Peabody Energy, with Jimmy Brock, CEO, Core Natural Resources serving as vice chair. Other members include Rich Nolan, president and CEO, National Mining Association and Randall Atkins, chairman and CEO, Ramaco Resources.
The NCC met today (January 15) at the White House for the first time, and two times a year thereafter. The council provides advice and recommendations on scientific, technical and programmatic issues relating to the successful execution of DOE’s mission. Terms are for two years.
“The United States has more coal than any nation has in any one energy source, and coal’s importance to U.S. energy security and affordability is enormous,” Grech said. “The coal industry has never had an advocate in the White House like President Trump, and his policies are beginning to unleash substantial consumer benefits. Coal also represents untapped potential in such areas as rare earth elements and critical minerals, which are also cornerstones of American national security. I am honored to serve in this role with the NCC and look forward to working with the Trump Administration, Secretary Wright, Jimmy Brock as Vice Chair and our coal industry partners to advance policies that further strengthen American energy reliability and affordability.”
U.S. coal-fueled generation rose an estimated 13% in 2025, driven by extended coal plant lives, major cost advantages, and rising electricity demand from AI and data centers. Existing coal plants fuel substantial electricity generation and also represent a significant ability to satisfy growing U.S. electricity demand. Increased U.S. coal use helped grow 2025 global coal demand to another all-time record of 8.8 billion metric tons, according to the International Energy Agency.
Atkins was serving as the last chairman of the NCC in 2021 when former U.S. President Biden allowed the NCC’s charter to lapse, forcing it to cease operations. The council’s re-establishment by President Trump and Secretary of Energy Chris Wright marks another significant milestone and renewed commitment to advancing America’s coal industry and energy security, Atkins explained. “Their efforts reflect a strong belief in the value of coal as a strategic resource and the importance of expert guidance in shaping national energy policy,” he said.
Source: www.coalage.com
