“This action involves no layoffs, however, most overtime and other non-essential work may be postponed until resumption of normal operations,” the company said of the 585-worker complex.

“The company will continue to monitor utility demand and respond accordingly.”

The producer said it did not know how long the suspension would last but it expected a production shortfall of about 400,000 tons per month during the reduced schedule.

Blacksville No. 2 produced 4.3 million tons with a single longwall and three continuous miners in 2011.

An ILN request for more details and comment was not immediately returned.

The complex in Monongalia County extracts from the Pittsburgh 8 seam.