CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) — The West Virginia Coal Association today applauded the Trump Administration and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for finalizing the repeal of the Biden-era power-plant Carbon Rule and proposing to rescind remaining greenhouse-gas regulations for power plants under Section 111 of the Clean Air Act.
The EPA action eliminates costly mandates that would have required coal-fired power plants to install carbon-capture technology that is not broadly demonstrated or commercially viable for the nation’s existing coal fleet. EPA estimates the repeal will save more than $300 billion nationwide.
“Today’s action is a win for West Virginia coal, our electric grid, and the families and businesses that depend on affordable, reliable power,” said Chris Hamilton, President of the West Virginia Coal Association. “The prior rule threatened to force the premature retirement of dependable coal-fired generation and impose enormous compliance costs that ultimately would have been paid by ratepayers.”
Coal-fired power plants remain vital to West Virginia’s economy and regional grid reliability, delivering around-the-clock electricity during periods of peak demand, extreme weather, and emergencies. By removing burdensome federal carbon mandates, the EPA’s action helps preserve dispatchable generation, protect jobs, and reduce pressure for unnecessary increases in household and business electric bills.
“For West Virginia consumers, this is fundamentally about affordability and reliability,” Hamilton said. “Keeping proven coal generation available means protecting families from higher power bills and ensuring our communities, hospitals, schools, manufacturers, and small businesses have the electricity they need when they need it.”
The Association urges EPA to finalize its proposal to rescind the remaining power-sector greenhouse-gas standards and continue supporting policies that protect reliable energy, competitive electric rates, and West Virginia’s energy-producing communities.
