West

ENN

Coal country envisions paths forward in manufacturing, reclamation and renewables

Communities contemplate how to survive a post-extraction economy.

By Mason Adams . 18 August 2020
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Reckoning in coal country: How lax fiscal policy has left states flat-footed as mining declines

What happens when a $28.6 billion industry spirals into permanent decline?

By Mason Adams . 11 August 2020
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As Colorado towns come to grips with a coal-free future, the state looks for ways to help

Ideas range from retraining to relocation programs to funding to help towns realize tourism potential.

By Allen Best . 6 August 2020
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Amid the pandemic, can Colorado still lead on a just transition from coal?

A new draft report outlines the state’s strategy as COVID-19 accelerates the crisis.

By Allen Best . 5 August 2020
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States are banning coal. Will it change the electricity mix?

States banning coal — including Hawaii — had mostly already committed to reducing carbon emissions.

By EnergyWire . 21 July 2020
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Solar firm buying land rights near coal plants with eye toward transmission

As coal plants retire, they leave behind power lines and grid connections that can be a big asset to renewable developers.

By Karen Uhlenhuth . 14 July 2020
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Coal communities increasingly rely on federal health programs

Coal’s decline has forced staunchly anti-Obamacare politicians to reconsider Medicaid expansion, while rural communities depend on telehealth more than ever.

By Mason Adams . 30 June 2020
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Coal country faces a healthcare crisis

The coronavirus pandemic has hammered healthcare systems for rural populations already struggling with the loss of coal jobs and health coverage.

By Mason Adams . 25 June 2020
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Support grows for taxpayer-funded oil well cleanup as an economic stimulus

Democrats leading the push say their plan has no real downside, while critics say it gives the industry a pass.

By Mark Olalde . 23 June 2020
ENN

What’s next for coal country?

Coal communities in Appalachia and Wyoming are vital revenue engines for huge portions of the rural U.S., and they face devastation with little time to adjust to new realities.

By Mason Adams . 23 June 2020