The EIA said coal production in May totaled 99 million short tons, 11% higher than in May 2000. Coal consumed by the electric power sector in March 2001 totaled 82 million tons, 7% up.

Electric power sector coal stocks were 97 million tons at the end of March 2001, 28% lower than the level a year earlier.

Exports in March were 40% lower than March 2000, at a scant 3 million tons, while imports totaled 1 million tons, up 22%.