Putin’s energy crisis in Europe has pushed global coal use to a historic high—but here’s why it won’t stay that way for long

Photo of a power plant in Germany. (Credit: Patrick Pleul/picture alliance—Getty Images)

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine triggered an energy crisis that’s unfolded across Europe. 

Before the war, the European Union relied on Russia for 40% of its natural gas and close to 30% of its crude oil. Since Russia cut off the continent’s energy supply, European officials have scrambled to find alternatives—one being coal.