It also cites strong competition from LNG, stagnant electricity demand, a weak coal export market and regulatory challenges as contributing factors.

There were 103 mines brought on line in 2013, however, 271 were idled or closed. This represents a 14% decline in the total number producing coal mines in 2012-13.

Although preliminary coal production data showed a slight increase for 2014, the figures were still below previous levels.

Coal production was at its highest in 2008 with increased demand for electricity increasing the number of new mines.

The opening, reopening, idling or closure of mines serves as a measure of the industry’s growth or contraction, with new and reactivated mines providing replacement capacity for mines made idle.

These mines produced 63 million short tonnes in their first year for the period 2009-13.