Yes, we certainly should export coal. For the U.S., coal exports offer a classic example of how international trade confers reciprocal benefits to both exporting and importing countries. Our 250-year supply of coal, the world's largest, is enough to serve our domestic needs as well as those of present day Europe and the growing needs of fast-growing developing countries.

Over the past decade, our steady growth in coal exports -- from about 60 million short tons in 2000 to a record 123 million short tons last year – have added substantial value throughout coal's supply chain. From mines in Appalachia to Wyoming, throughout the barge and rail transportation network, to ports on the East Coast and the Gulf, coal exports have added jobs for American workers and revenue for local communities. Coal terminal expansions now underway will enable us to meet more of the world's growing need for affordable energy and benefit Americans as well.

The abundance and affordability of U.S. coal will be of critical assistance to the 1.4 billion people in the world currently without access to electricity. Studies show that every tenfold increase in electricity is linked with a better standard of living, higher literacy and a healthier population. These rudimentary advantages of civilization we often take for granted are still beyond the reach of many.

For example, experts expect India will overtake China to become the largest coal importer. Fully one-third of India's population of 1.2 billion people lacks electricity – that means they lack basic heat and water sanitation. The black out in India last year put 10 percent of the world's population in the dark, renewing official commitments to import more coal.

U.S. policymakers will hopefully be realistic about the reciprocal benefits of exporting coal and its contributions to the President's ambitious export goal. They have an enormous opportunity if only they will take it.

Read the entire blog post here: http://energy.nationaljournal.com/2013/01/should-america-exploit-energy.php#2280696