Why Coal?

In a rapidly shifting global energy landscape, reliability is more important than ever. In Alaska, coal continues to serve as a strategic and dependable resource, powering communities, helping stabilize energy costs, and supporting greater energy independence.

A Strategic Anchor in an uncertain energy world

Global energy markets are constantly shifting — driven by geopolitical tensions, supply constraints, and fluctuating fuel prices. Unlike other energy sources, Alaska’s coal is local, abundant, and not tied to international markets.

That stability matters.

Coal provides consistent, around-the-clock power — ensuring homes, businesses, and essential services can count on dependable electricity in Interior Alaska and beyond.

Alaska's energy

Stable, predictable energy costs

Because coal is sourced locally, it helps shield Alaska communities from the volatility of global fuel markets. While other commodity prices can spike suddenly, coal offers a more predictable cost structure. This supports long-term planning for utilities, businesses, and families alike.

energy independance for alaska

Alaska holds some of the largest coal reserves in the world; UCM alone holds over 75 years of reserves. Putting this resource to work reduces dependence on imported fuels and keeps energy dollars within the state. This isn’t just about energy; it’s about economic strength. Local coal supports Alaska jobs and communities, and contributes to a secure, more self-reliant energy future.

supporting a balanced energy mix

Coal continues to play an important role alongside renewable sources. As Alaska expands wind, solar, and emerging technologies, coal provides the dependable baseload power Alaska needs to keep the grid stable. It’s not an either/or approach. It’s about balance.

Up to 400 feet of material must be moved just to reach alaska's coal.

Heavy Metal

Usibelli's dragline, "Ace in the Hole," is Alaska's
largest piece of mobile equipment. It operates 100% on electric power.

Delivering Security

Our clients include Fairbanks and Healy power plants, the University of Alaska, and military bases, where up to 90 days of reserves are maintained.

Commited to Safety

Our safety-first culture has achieved a milestone of hundreds of days without a lost-time injury.

Meticulous planning, perfection in execution, and complete restoration of the environment is what we do. Safety guides how we do it.

Overburden

The first 100 feet of overburden is often loosened with controlled blasting. The dozers, haulers, loaders and dragline then get to work. Ten hours a day, all year-round.

Hauling

Usibelli Coal Mine maintains a fleet of massive Caterpillar haulers. Each is capable of carryiing loads up to 423 tons.

Delivery

Stacked up by the haulers, coal is loaded 1,899 yards at a time into our conveyor system, which takes the coal to a row of waiting coal cars, and a train ride.

Reclamation

Every step of the way, the environment is a priority. The terrain and watershed is restored. Since 1970, over 600,000 trees have been planted at Usibelli Coal mine, with another 15,000 added every year.