In 2023, coal-fired power generation fell to its lowest level since the 1960s.

In a few short years, LFP batteries crushed nickel and cobalt mining markets and new technology could do the same to lithium.

The rumoured negotiations could see Jiangxi buying one of the two mines First Quantum has in Zambia, or a stake in one of them.

It also flagged a write-down on the value of its assets as the effect of weak prices for the battery material becomes evident among producers.

US-based scientists say coal can play a vital role in next-generation electronic devices.

Japan’s Nippon Steel and South Korea's Posco now own Teck's prior minority stake in Elk Valley Resources, the steelmaking coal business.