China's coal-fired power generation rises in early 2026 after decade of decline (xataka.com)

• China's coal+gas power generation Jan-May 2026: +3.4% to 2.53 trillion kWh.
• Drivers: El Niño drought, Iran war/Hormuz blockade, weak wind, slower renewable capacity addition.
• New coal plants since 2024 with long-term contracts creating institutional bias, per CREA analyst.

"China's coal and gas power output rose 3.4% year-on-year from January to May 2026, halting a decade-long decline. Factors include El Niño-driven drought cutting hydro output, the Iran war blocking LNG access via the Strait of Hormuz, slower renewable expansion, and new coal plants commissioned since 2024 with long-term contracts that guarantee usage. Coal consumption in the power sector increased 3% to 2.7 billion tonnes."