America's Most Productive Underground Mines Hold Steady/Longwall operators benefit from a robust met market

摘要

After several years of robust demand, business fell flat in 2009 for U.S. Longwall operators. Several of the mines were idled for short periods to balance production with demand. Others invested in equipment improvements or pushed ahead with development plans. Business began to revive by the end of 2009 with an uptick in the met markets. Even though industrial demand for power is not expected to return until the end of 2010, a protracted cold snap during this winter season has given U.S. longwall operators something to smile about. For the most part, the U.S. Longwall Census shows only a few major changes compared to last year. One new mine, Bull Mountain, was added in Montana. Alpha Natural Resources merged with Foundation Coal and the census now reflects that information. Jim Walter Resources in Alabama changed the company name to Walter Energy.