Coal is arguably one of the most widely used, and most controversial, energy sources in the world. Despite a growing push toward renewable energy sources, coal continues to hold its position as the third-largest contributor to U.S. electricity generation.
The largest coal company in the U.S. is Peabody Energy Corp (BTU), valued at $2.95 billion. Peabody produces both thermal coal for power generation and metallurgical coal for steelmaking, operating mines in the U.S. and Australia. Peabody has been through the wringer in the past few years, with the shares ultimately hitting lows south of $1 back in November 2021, pressured by concerns over a potential second bankruptcy filing alongside lower demand for coal.
