CHICAGO (AP) — Illinois coal exports have risen sharply in recent years, even as its high sulfur content limits its demand in the U.S.

The state Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity says that about 12 million tons of Illinois coal was exported in 2013. That’s down from the 13 million tons exported in 2012, but far more than the 5.5 million tons exported in 2011 and 2.5 million tons in 2010.