Blog Archives

Solar Panels on Southwest Virginia Schools Signal a Diversifying Economy

A project manager in a neon vest and construction hat kneels atop the roof of the St. Paul school..

School solar projects demonstrate how Virginia’s coalfield counties are diversifying their economies and energy options with solar power.

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The Beast of Bristol: The Landfill Haunting Residents of the Twin Cities

two people in front of a large guitar statue hold signs about the landfill problems

Terrible, persistent smells from the Bristol landfill have put a damper on quality of life for residents of the Twin Cities. Officials acknowledge the problem, but there’s no clear path forward.

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What it takes to reenergize Southwest Virginia

Economic development in Southwest Virginia could get a long overdue jumpstart with the suggestions Virginia Energy outlined in its Reenergize Southwest Final Report. The report, which was released in December 2021, makes recommendations for the General Assembly to support the economic transition in the coalfields after eliminating the state’s coal tax credits in 2021.

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Online tool helps track status of mine ownership in aftermath of Blackjewel bankruptcy

The fate of thousands of acres of mines requiring tens of millions of dollars of reclamation was thrown into doubt when Blackjewel, Revelation Energy and affiliated mining operations filed for bankruptcy in July 2019.

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New tool helps track large number of mine permits set to be voided in Blackjewel bankruptcy

mountaintop removal coal mine

Appalachian Voices has created a web page designed to help concerned residents, reporters and regulators track the status of mines caught up in the Blackjewel bankruptcy where the permits will become void once the Blackjewel companies cease to exist at the end of the year.

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The Sun is Shining on Southwest Virginia’s Growing Solar Industry

Learn about several exciting updates on the bright future for Southwest Virginia’s growing solar energy industry, broken down into four categories: 1) residential solar, 2) commercial solar, 3) utility solar and 4) shared solar!

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New Clinch River State Park Showcases Biodiversity

park sign

Supporters of Southwest Virginia’s newest state park hope that it will foster a conservation mindset and bring awareness to the Clinch River’s rich biodiversity.

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Southwest Virginians Share Solar Experiences

Two people and one organization based in Southwest Virginia tell their solar stories.

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Solar advocates score victory for schools, localities in APCO territory

solar panels in Wise County, Va.

CONTACT: Chelsea Barnes, Legislative Director, chelsea@appvoices.org, 276-207-9636 Norton, VA – Local government officials and Appalachian Power Co. announced today that schools and localities in the utility’s territory will be permitted to use net metering and solar financing programs consistent with

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