Senate Republicans introduced a resolution Monday declaring “Coal Week,” as the climate-change movement’s least-favorite energy source enjoys a rebound under the Trump administration.
Sen. Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming was joined by fellow Republicans from Alaska, Utah and West Virginia in sponsoring the resolution that cheers on President Trump for boosting coal after years of opposition under Democratic presidents.
“For years, the Biden and Obama administrations waged a relentless war on American coal, killing jobs, undermining our communities and driving up energy costs for everyday Americans,” Ms. Lummis said. “Under President Trump’s pro-energy leadership, we are fighting back and reversing that destructive agenda.”
The coal industry has been in decline for decades, thanks to factors including environmental regulations, competition from natural gas and government incentives favoring renewables. But growing demand for electricity, rising electricity prices, and concerns about grid reliability have worked in coal’s favor.
Last month, the Department of the Interior announced it would open 13.1 million acres for coal leasing and lower royalty rates from 12.5% to 7%, while the Department of Energy plans to invest $625 million into recommissioning and modernizing coal-fired plants.
“In Wyoming, we know firsthand how important coal is to keeping the lights on across the country,” said Sen. John Barrasso, Wyoming Republican. “It’s one of the most affordable, reliable, and abundant sources of energy on the planet. National Coal Week is an opportunity to celebrate this critical resource and honor Wyoming’s energy workers who work hard every day to help power our nation.”
A dozen environmental groups sued in June after the Trump administration loosened the Biden-era standards on coal emissions, accusing the president of overstepping his authority by providing exemptions for 68 coal-fired plants in 23 states.
Republicans argued that the 2024 standards would sound the death knell for older coal-fired plants without making meaningful improvements in air pollution.
“With a partner in President Trump, we’re reversing disastrous Biden-era policies that hindered the use of coal powered generation and blocked responsible resource development across Alaska and our country,” said Sen. Dan Sullivan, Alaska Republican. “Coal Week reminds us of how vital American energy dominance is to our national security and our economic success.”
The resolution designating Oct. 19-25 as “Coal Week” says that coal provided 19.5% of U.S. utility-scale electricity in 2022.
Sen. Jim Justice, West Virginia Republican, said that coal has been integral to driving the nation’s economy.
“Energy is absolutely everything. It drives our nation forward, and for generations, coal has been the backbone,” said Mr. Justice. “During Coal Week, we honor the hardworking women and men who keep America running and continue West Virginia’s proud legacy as an energy leader.”
The nation’s biggest coal-producing state is Wyoming, followed by West Virginia and Pennsylvania, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
• Valerie Richardson can be reached at vrichardson@washingtontimes.com.
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