Uncertainty over gas flows to Europe and forecast stronger coal demand from the continent is continuing to propel prices of the fuel.

West Texas Intermediate crude advanced as much as 4.1% to beyond $90 a barrel, before paring some gains.

Nuclear power accounted for 6% of electricity generation in Germany in the first quarter, compared with more than 30% from coal.

Aluminum production in Europe has dropped to the lowest levels since the 1970s.

Stahl Gerlafingen wants to put staff on shorter working hours to contend with soaring energy bills.

Germany’s Green Party denied a report that it will back a plan allowing some of the nation’s nuclear power plants to continue operating beyond a previously set phase-out date.

Mine 7 will continue production of bituminous coal, used primarily in the steel industry, until July 2025.

Analysts have raised questions about Fortescue’s spending on the green unit after the miner last month reported a 40% drop in full-year profit.