There’s something to be said for that theory, since coal and natural gas DO compete for the same customers. However, what the author doesn’t recognize is that many utilities have different power plants on their grid that use different types of fuel, depending on fuel prices, export markets, etc. And coal is used for steel production, while gas is not.
There is little to be said for the theory other than the base premise is wrong. The assumption is that the electrical requirements are met either with coal or with gas. Both can flourish and have flourished together. What is hilarious is the NYT probably hates both, yet gets almost all their power from both. Wait, their power comes from that little rectangle on the wall so there is no harm to the planet. sarc
Coal is easier to export. Flood the world with U.S. coal, and the U.S. with U.S. natural gas and petroleum.
Everyone gains — except the climate flim-flam artists.