West Virginia Coal Association President Bill Raney took part in a panel discussion and presentation at the annual North American Coalbed Methane Forum May 21 in Canonsburg, PA. Raney discussed the current state of the coal industry in West Virginia, spotlighting some of the major challenges the industry faces in the current regulatory climate.
Raney said West Virginia coal miners were able to overcome these pressures in 2014, actually showing a slight increase in production despite significant layoffs, mine closures and permitting issues.
Joining Raney was the leaders of coal associations in Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Virginia and Pennsylvania. Robert Murray, President and CEO of Murray Energy was the keynote speaker pointing out the challenges faced by the industry going forward.