The company will also idle at least a portion of the Amonate mining complex in southern West Virginia.
A determination of whether to partially or fully idle was expected soon, along with an effective idling date, the company said.
“Global steel demand is under pressure and as a consequence, raw materials used to make steel are in less demand,” Consol said in a statement.
“Through these idlings, Consol Energy is responding to weak market conditions throughout its export markets in Asia, Europe and South America. The idlings are expected to last for 30-60 days.”
Buchanan typically produces about 400,000 tonnes per month, while Amonate produces about 35,000tpm.
Buchanan has about 620 production and maintenance workers, most of whom will be furloughed. Amonate’s workforce is contracted.
“The company will continue to monitor market demand and respond accordingly,” Consol said.
