Since peaking near 328 gigawatts (GW) in 2010, operating coal power plant capacity in the United States has been on a steady decline. In the 15-year period, between 2010 and 2025, roughly 40% (135-GW) of the operating portfolio was shut down. Despite the large number of closures, the pace is showing signs of slowing. Two years ago, there were more than 8 GW expected to retire in 2025. So far this year, only 10% (0.8-GW) of that projection has occurred. This following 2024, when only 4-GW were shuttered – the lowest annual volume since way back in 2011. According to data compiled by Hitachi Energy’s Velocity Suite research team, most future coal plant closures across the U.S. are expected between now and the end of 2030 – with nearly 56-GW currently scheduled for retirement. Of the approximate 197-GW in operation today, there is still 125-GW currently without retirement dates set. In 2025, driven by increased electricity demand, coal has contributed more than 17% of the generation mix through May – up nearly 20% from the same period last year. Stockpiles at U.S. coal power plants have grown steadily since the beginning of the year - totaling just under 120 million tons by the end of May.
Chart: Hitachi Energy’s Velocity Suite