October/November 2018
In Appalachia, our energy options and prices are determined by where we live. Whether our power provider is an investor-owned corporation, an electric cooperative or a municipally owned utility, they determine our energy sources and electricity costs, and even affect the affordability of putting solar panels on our own roofs.
These electric utilities are supposed to be accountable to the people they serve and act in the public’s interest. But the system often does not work in residents’ favor. In Part One of a special two-issue look at our energy system, we examine the underlying problems that prevent power companies from responding to the needs and interests of citizens. Our upcoming Dec./Jan. issue will explore the solutions.
Imbalance of Power
Examining the system that keeps power companies and regulators from acting in ratepayers’ best interests
Birds, Birds, Birds
Birders across Virginia are participating in a multi-year survey of breeding birds in an effort to provide sound science to inform better conservation policies.
Other Top Stories From October/November 2018
Battling for Black Lung Benefits
The deadly disease is on the rise, but funding for healthcare will be halved unless Congress acts this year.
Mountain Valley Pipeline Sparks Anger
Pipeline construction crews have upset residents along Mountain Valley’s route by logging near tree-sitters, ignoring a state-issued temporary work suspension and accidentally pelting a family with erosion control pellets.
Legal Challenges Against Pipelines Heat Up
Federal and state courts alike have partially halted the construction of fracked gas pipelines across the region as cases are decided and permits are reevaluated.
October/November 2018 - Columns
Hiking the Highlands
The Bluestone Turnpike Trail
This roughly 10-mile trail follows the Bluestone River in southern West Virginia and gives hikers a taste of the wild.
Naturalist’s Notebook
Versatile Vultures
These misunderstood scavengers of the sky play a vital role in our ecosystem.
This Green House
Retired Southwest Virginia Couple Goes Solar
Retired couple Kathy and Gary Selvage are happy they decided to put solar panels on their Southwest Virginia home.
Across Appalachia
Energy Report