Coal capacity outside China is not anticipated to change much, with additional capacity in Asia offset by retirements in Europe and North America.
"In 2021 India, Japan, Indonesia, Vietnam and Bangladesh are set to commission a number of coal-fired plants that are currently in the final stages of construction, although it is difficult to make an accurate estimate as projects have been delayed by the Covid-19-induced crisis," the IEA said.
"Unit 1 of the Hassyan plant in the United Arab Emirates will become the first coal power plant in the Middle East outside Israel."
Coal power plant retirements continue in Europe and North America in 2021, according to the IEA.
"In the US, after 10GW being decommissioned in 2020, another 3GW is planned for retirement in 2021, although the final figure could be higher if some units scheduled for 2022 close earlier," it said.
"In Europe decommissioning will continue in Spain, the United Kingdom, Germany and in particular Italy.
"After the closure of the Pego and Sines coal-fired power plants, Portugal will follow Belgium, Austria and Sweden to end coal power generation in the country. Overall, more than 12GW are expected to be retired in Europe in 2021."
