Stay with Coal by Chris Hamilton

There is a sudden, unexpected and massive rise in electricity demand occurring across the country due to a variety of factors converging before us.

Large power-gobbling data centers necessary to support our nation’s ever-increasing digital activities and the evolution of artificial intelligence technologies are a primary factor.

Our growing economy, the rise in remote work, personal technology reliance, and electric vehicle usage are also contributing to this demand.

This is great news for states like West Virginia, which generate more electricity than it consumes and has the capability and capacity to accommodate the expected growth in demand.

Not only is West Virginia blessed with indigenous coal supplies, but we also check the box for available land mass and plentiful water supplies necessary for power development.

New White Paper Finds Coal Plays Critical Role in Helping West Virginia Ratepayers

A newly released white paper by Energy Ventures Analysis (EVA), prepared for America’s Power, demonstrates the essential role that coal-based power generation plays in keeping West Virginia’s electricity rates stable and affordable. The analysis found that coal dependency has helped maintain lower rates over the past two decades, providing stability unmatched by many other states.

“States like West Virginia, where coal-fired generation is a primary energy source, benefit from some of the country’s most affordable electricity,” said Michelle Bloodworth, CEO of America’s Power. “Forcing a shift away from coal often leads to price hikes, which can significantly impact household budgets and the broader economy.”

West Virginia, where coal accounts for 88% of electricity generation, boasts electricity rates nearly 20% below the national average and the second-lowest among states east of the Mississippi. The state’s rates have consistently declined since 2016, attributed to its coal reliance, proximity to reserves, and regulated market structure.

Chris Hamilton, President of the West Virginia Coal Association, emphasized, “Coal’s reliability in West Virginia keeps electricity affordable, a crucial factor as costs rise in other sectors.”

The EVA report also noted that states moving away from coal in favor of natural gas and renewables have faced higher electricity costs and greater price volatility. Bloodworth cautioned, “Policies that close coal plants threaten reliable, affordable electricity access, as increased costs for utilities ultimately affect consumers.”

For more information, please visit www.AmericasPower.org

 

Must-See: The Latest Episode of The Coal Seam Featuring WVCA Leadership

We’re excited to share the newest episode of The Coal Seam with you, featuring an in-depth conversation with West Virginia Coal Association leadership, President Chris Hamilton, and Vice President Jason Bostic.

In this episode, they discuss key issues affecting the coal industry today, including the significance of coal to West Virginia’s economy and energy security. They also spotlight the WVU Coal Rush game and the special uniforms celebrating West Virginia’s proud coal heritage.

Don’t miss this must-see video, now available on WV Public TV.

 

WVU Coal Rush Honors WV Miners, Coal Industry

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West Virginia’s coal industry and coal miners were celebrated and honored Saturday night in front of a national television audience during the WVU v Iowa State football game, which was broadcast on the Fox network.

The West Virginia University football team wore the new all-black “Coal Rush” uniform which was designed to pay tribute to the work ethic and bravery of the West Virginia coal miner and celebrate our state’s coal industry.

Our players entered the field joined by miners from Arch Resources’ Leer Mining Complex in Grafton where the Coal Rush concept was derived. The miners also accompanied the team as they made the "Mountaineer Mantrip" player-walk into the stadium. 

The miners, representatives of the WVU Mining Engineering Student Mine Rescue Team and other industry officials were honored during the game. During half time, as part of a show comprised of hundreds of lighted drones flying above the stadium, the drones spelled out “Coal Never Quits”.

In the days leading up to the game, Pat McAfee, former WVU kicker, ESPN commentator, and current host of the Pat McAfee Show, highlighted the importance of the coal miner to West Virginia and the country. During the game broadcast, national commentators continually lauded the history, heritage, and impact of the mining industry.

This was a very special evening, and, as an industry, we are appreciative of WVU’s acknowledgement of coal’s role in shaping our state and people.

WVU’s “Coal Rush” Uniform Honors West Virginia Miners

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When the West Virginia University football team takes the field on Saturday night against nationally-ranked Iowa State they’ll don the new “Coal Rush” uniform. Our players will be accompanied onto the field by miners from Arch Resources’ Leer Mine Complex in Grafton where the Coal Rush concept was derived.

The Coal Rush uniform was designed to pay tribute to the work ethic and bravery of the West Virginia coal miner and celebrate our state’s coal industry.

In announcing the design back in May, WVU Vice President and Director of Athletics Wren Baker said, “If our football team was going to have a black alternate uniform, we wanted it to tell a story and mean something to our fans. Coal mining has a deep history in West Virginia, and the work ethic of coal miners is woven into the fabric of our culture. Our football team looks forward to honoring the rich tradition and history of West Virginia’s coal mining industry…”