Alaska Energy.
Four Generations Strong.

Following Alaska’s statehood in 1959, infrastructure investment and population growth created new opportunities. Usibelli Coal Mine responded by modernizing operations and increasing output to meet rising demand.The company began building long-term relationships with utilities and institutions, positioning itself as a key energy provider in the state.

These partnerships would become central to its long-term stability.



‍

A major milestone came in 1985 when Usibelli Coal Mine began exporting coal internationally, particularly to South Korea. This marked the company’s entry into the global energy market and demonstrated the quality and competitiveness of Alaska coal.

Despite this expansion, the company remained grounded in its Alaskan roots, continuing to serve local utilities while building a reputation abroad.


‍

By the 90s, operations had grown to include a new mining area, Gold Run Pass, and boasted more than 100 employees and close to 1.6 million tons of coal annually.

In 1995, construction of the Healy Clean Coal Plant (now known as Healy Unit No. 2) was started. In 1997, a permit for the Two Bull Ridge Mine was issued, and development began.

At the same time, Usibelli Coal Mine placed a growing emphasis on environmental responsibility.

 This decade reinforced the company’s long-term approach, balancing production with stewardship, and maintaining strong relationships with employees, communities, and regulators.

In the early 2000s the mine adopted new technologies to improve efficiency, safety, and environmental performance. Equipment upgrades and process improvements allowed for more consistent production with reduced impact.

In 2011, combined export and domestic coal contracts meant more than 2.2 million tons in annual production with over 130 employees. However, economic conditions resulted in the downturn of the export market and Usibelli Coal Mine's last export of coal sailed out Seward in July 2016. 

Usibelli Coal Mine continued to strengthen its role as a stable employer in the Interior, supporting local families and contributing to the regional economy.

As global energy markets had shifted, the company adapted by focusing on operational efficiency and maintaining strong partnerships with long-term customers in Interior Alaska.

Reliability became a defining strength. During this time, Usibelli Coal Mine continued investing in its workforce and safety culture, reinforcing its identity as a dependable, Alaska-based operation built to endure changing conditions.

In 2017, Usibelli continued efforts to develop the Jumbo Dome Mine by constructing roads to access the area's coal reserves. More than 2.5 million tons of coal were produced from the Jumbo Dome Road Corridor (JDRC), which is approximately 14 miles from the headquarters building. More than 83 million tons of coal is permitted at the Jumbo Dome Mine.
‍

Today, Usibelli Coal Mine is part of Alaska’s energy solution—delivering reliable, locally sourced coal that helps stabilize energy costs and strengthen energy independence.

In an increasingly uncertain global energy landscape, coal provides consistent, dispatchable power that supports communities and complements a growing mix of energy sources.

That work is powered by a dedicated Alaska-based team. Usibelli supports 322 direct and indirect jobs statewide, , they help ensure reliable energy while supporting local communities and Alaska’s economy.Usibelli remains focused on helping build a resilient, balanced energy future for the state.




‍