Hemp vs. Coal?

I just saw the article below and am wondering if this can be true? Can hemp really compete with coal? I'll have to do some research into bio-charcoal because right now I don't know anything about it.

ALCP call for end to Coal Mining in NZ

Tuesday, 30 November 2010, 1:32 pm
Press Release: Aotearoa Legalise Cannabis Party ALCP call for end to Coal Mining in NZ
The Aotearoa Legalise Cannabis Party are calling for a permanent end to Coal Mining in New Zealand. "Coal is a dirty 19th century fuel, that is redundant in the 21st century. New Zealand currently produces half its electricity from coal and also exports coal internationally. As a result New Zealand contributes significantly to man made climate change," said spokesperson Julian Crawford.
The Party points to the fact that there are alternatives to Coal that can be produced and combusted without any adverse impact on the environment. "Cannabis Hemp is the only crop capable of producing carbon-neutral bio-charcoal in the same quantities as existing coal supplies. This would permanently end the need for dangerous and environmentally destructive coal mining," said Mr Crawford.