Coal And Coke At Furnace And Merchant Coke Plants

This table provides a detailed overview of coal consumption and coke production, trade, and consumption at furnace and merchant coke plants in the United States. These data are critical for understanding the supply chain dynamics and industrial demand for coke, a key input in steel manufacturing and other metallurgical processes. Tracking coal consumption alongside coke production and trade flows helps gauge the health of related industries, informs energy policy, and supports economic planning by illustrating how raw materials are converted and distributed within the domestic market.

Between 2022 and 2023, coal consumption at these plants showed a slight decline, decreasing from 14,500 to 14,400 thousand metric tons. In contrast, coke production experienced a notable increase, rising from 10,300 to 11,200 thousand metric tons, indicating improved efficiency or higher demand for coke products. Exports of coke decreased significantly by 610 thousand metric tons, dropping from 2,120 to 1,510 thousand metric tons, while imports more than tripled from 61 to 205 thousand metric tons, suggesting shifts in trade patterns or sourcing strategies. Apparent consumption of coke domestically also grew substantially, from 8,330 to 10,100 thousand metric tons, reflecting stronger internal demand possibly linked to increased industrial activity or substitution effects.