CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia Coal Association (WVCA) applauds U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright for his recent statements emphasizing the importance of maintaining coal-fired power plants across the United States. In a time when energy policy is increasingly scrutinized, Secretary Wright’s commitment to halting the closure of additional coal plants aligns with the interests of West Virginia’s economy and America’s need for energy security.
Secretary Wright recently stated, “We should not close any more coal plants,” highlighting concerns that retiring these facilities has led to increased electricity costs and grid instability.
His remarks resonate deeply with the West Virginia Coal Association’s mission to ensure that West Virginia continues to benefit from its rich coal resources, which currently account for nearly 90 percent of the state’s electricity generation.
Chris Hamilton, President of the West Virginia Coal Association, remarked, “Secretary Wright’s comments reflect a clear understanding of the critical role coal plays in providing affordable and reliable energy. Our state has consistently enjoyed some of the lowest electricity rates in the nation thanks to our reliance on coal.”
Hamilton further noted that West Virginia’s retail electricity rates are nearly 20% lower than the national average, providing economic stability for families and businesses alike.
The recent white paper by Energy Ventures Analysis supports these claims, demonstrating that states heavily dependent on coal have experienced stable electricity prices compared to those that have shifted towards renewable energy sources. “Policies that force utilities away from coal often lead to price hikes and uncertainty for consumers,” Hamilton added.
As discussions around energy transition continue, the West Virginia Coal Association urges policymakers to recognize the invaluable contributions of coal to both local economies and national energy security. The association remains committed to advocating for policies that support coal production and utilization as essential components of America’s energy landscape.
For additional information, contact Chris Hamilton at (304) 342-4153.
