Australian coal producer New Hope Group has joined FutureCoal – the Global Alliance for Sustainable Coal, as the industry body says interest in coal’s role in energy security and industrial demand remains strong.

FutureCoal said the new membership reflects growing engagement from Australian coal producers as debate around energy reliability and affordability intensifies.

Australia remains a major player in global coal markets, holding the world’s third-largest coal reserves and generating more than $90-billion a year in coal exports while supporting about 350 000 jobs across the economy.

FutureCoal CEO Michelle Manook said New Hope’s decision to join the alliance highlighted a shift in the national energy discussion.

“Australia is returning to energy realism,” Manook said. “As reliability, affordability and system performance move back to the centre of policy discussions, companies like New Hope are choosing to engage constructively in shaping coal’s future.”

She said the company would strengthen the organisation’s global membership base.

“New Hope Group is an important addition to FutureCoal’s membership,” she said. “As an Australian coal producer with associated port and agricultural operations, it brings a practical, long-term perspective on how coal continues to operate alongside other energy sources and industries.”

FutureCoal said the collaboration would support initiatives under its Sustainable Coal Stewardship roadmap, which focuses on emissions reduction technologies, operational improvements and environmental standards across the coal value chain.

New Hope CEO Rob Bishop said joining the alliance would help connect Australia’s coal industry with international discussions.

“FutureCoal provides an important link between what is happening on the ground in Australia and international discussions on responsible stewardship, technology, and emissions reduction, ensuring practical experience helps shape global outcomes,” Bishop said.

Formerly the World Coal Association, FutureCoal represents a body of like-minded coal value chain participants who promote responsible education and transformation across the coal value chain through modernisation and deployment of abatement technologies and processes.