Written by Dan Radmacher
Dan Radmacher
Dan is Appalachian Voice's Media Specialist. Previously, he worked as an opinion journalist for newspapers in Illinois, West Virginia, Florida and Virginia, and then as a communications consultant for a number of environmental nonprofit organizations.
Appalachian Voices statement on White House coal actions
President Donald Trump ordered a series of actions this week intended to prop up America’s declining coal industry. Trump announced that the Department of Energy will pay electric utilities $175 million for upgrades to aging coal plants in Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio and West Virginia. Trump also ordered the Pentagon to buy more coal-generated power, though did not specify where such power might be purchased.
Coal company owned by Sen. Jim Justice releases financial statement contradicting its previous sworn testimony
A recent financial disclosure by A&G Coal Company asserts that the company has substantial positive net assets, contradicting the recent sworn testimony of its general counsel asserting that it was over $9 million in debt and therefore unable to comply with its obligations under a court-approved 2023 settlement agreement.
TVA cuts the public out, keeps expensive and dangerous coal plants operating indefinitely
In a staggering reversal, the Tennessee Valley Authority Board of Directors voted unanimously today to continue operating its Kingston and Cumberland coal plants indefinitely, instead of retiring them as it brings new gas power plants online at the same sites.
Trump administration decision to deny the science of climate change puts communities at increased risk
Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced that it will issue a final rule on Thursday attempting to dramatically limit its responsibility to regulate the pollution that causes climate change, which is worsening dangerous flooding events, extreme droughts and heat waves throughout Appalachia and beyond.
Tennessee Valley Authority goes back on commitment to retire dirty coal plants
In an extremely disappointing reversal, the Tennessee Valley Authority announced it is planning to keep its Kingston and Cumberland coal plants operating for the foreseeable future, blowing by its upcoming deadlines to close the polluting facilities.
Rural Rally for Safe Water at West Virginia Capitol on Feb. 16
On Feb. 16 at 10 a.m., the faith-based coalfield organizing and advocacy group From Below will host a press conference in front of the House Chamber and rally advocating for the introduction and passage of the Coalfield Clean Water Act Bill.
Appalachian Voices releases platform for ‘Ensuring an Affordable, Transparent and Accountable Tennessee Valley Authority’
Appalachian Voices unveiled its “Ensuring an Affordable, Transparent, and Accountable Tennessee Valley Authority” policy platform to give regional and federal leaders and lawmakers a framework for policies to ensure the nation’s largest federally owned utility and regional economic driver can continue to provide affordable, safe and reliable electricity while building trust with the people it serves.
Appalachian Voices statement on partial government shutdown
At Appalachian Voices, we believe that no matter our income level, the color of our skin or whether we live in a holler or a city, everyone deserves a safe community, clean air and water, safety on the job, and the basic constitutional protections at the foundation of our democracy. We urge our country’s leaders to work together to ensure that all of these rights are protected.
FERC authorizes SSEP pipeline
Yesterday, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission authorized the dangerous, expensive and unnecessary Southeast Supply Enhancement Project, or SSEP.
Lexington City Council passes resolution expressing concern on Transco’s SSEP
Late last week, the Lexington, North Carolina, City Council passed a resolution highlighting concerns around the proposed Southeast Supply Enhancement Project.
