Germany Finds Replacements for Russian Coal

German importers of hard coal for power generation have found replacements for Russian coal from the US, South Africa and Colombia according to industry association VDKi.

• Between January and October 2022 Russia still accounted for a leading 34% of hard coal volumes imported by Germany.
• The United States accounted for 20% of imports in the 10-month period, followed by 15% from Colombia, 14% from Australia and 7% from South Africa.
• Hard coal imports into Germany last year amounted to 43 million tonnes, 4.7% more than recorded in 2021.
• German coal burning was boosted last year to try and save gas supplies. The industry body called for coal to be recognised as a back-up option for years to come, not just for one or two winters.