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Today, the U.S. coal mining industry is
recognized as one of the safest, most
productive, and technologically advanced in the
world.
The coal mining industry employs more than 70,000
men and women in the U.S. Productivity rates
have reached an average of 6 tons per miner per
hour, or 48 tons in a single 8-hour day. This
productivity has doubled from 1985, in part
thanks to technological advances and experienced
miners.
Today’s typical coal miner is a 50-year-old male
with 20-years of experience and at least a high
school diploma, according to the
National Mining
Association.
Nearly two-thirds of today’s U.S. coal
production results from surface mining, and
one-third from underground mining. And it is
estimated that the U.S. has another 250-year
supply of coal reserves.
Coal is by far the cheapest source of power fuel
per million Btu, averaging less than half the
price of petroleum and natural gas. Whether
turning on the lights, using your computer or
watching TV, more than half of the electricity
powering your modern life comes from coal.