Blog

Get Market News

Get weekly email updates on market factors like supply, demand, and regulatory affairs. Subscribe now

Get Started with ENGIE

ENGIE Resources is ready to analyze your historical energy usage data and present appropriate options. Get started now

Become a Broker or Consultant

Complete our Brokers & Consultants Inquiry Form. Learn more

Poll: Will Data Centers Bring a Coal Comeback?

January 17, 2025

In the evolving landscape of energy supply and demand, particularly driven by the rapid growth of AI and data centers, the question of coal's future has sparked considerable debate. To gauge public opinion on this issue, we conducted a survey asking, "Will Data Centers Bring a Coal Comeback?" The results from 35 respondents are in, and they offer intriguing insights into the current sentiment surrounding coal as an energy source.

A Divided Opinion

The survey revealed a divided opinion on the future of coal in powering data centers. A slight majority of respondents, 37%, believe that there is no coal comeback on the horizon. This group likely sees the continued advancement and adoption of renewable energy sources as a more viable and sustainable solution.

Close behind, 34% of respondents feel that coal may have a limited return but cannot compete with renewables for health and environmental impacts.

Interestingly, 28% of participants view coal as a major league player, citing a shift in political winds that could favor coal's resurgence.

These diverse opinions highlight the complexity of the energy landscape and the challenges in balancing demand with sustainable practices. Stay tuned for more updates and insights as we delve deeper into the future of energy and its impact on our world.

Coal mine