Front Porch Blog
Updates from Appalachia
Tennessee clean energy Jobs booming
According to a new report from Environmental Entrepreneurs, Tennessee is seeing clean energy job growth at nearly three times the rate of overall state employment growth. With the Clean Power Plan final rule released on Monday, the Volunteer state has an opportunity to not only spur job growth in renewable energy, but also adhere to the Clean Power Plan’s guidelines for reducing carbon emissions.
Obama Administration releases final version of the Clean Power Plan
This week the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency released the final version of the Clean Power Plan, the first-ever national rule limiting carbon pollution from existing power plants to safeguard public health and help address climate disruption.
A moment of truth for Kentucky’s coal regulators
A striking case of corruption related to mine inspections in Kentucky led to the recent criminal conviction of former Democratic state representative Keith Hall. But questions remain about how deep the conspiracy goes. Will Governor Steve Beshear and the state agencies that enforce mining laws in Kentucky adequately investigate?
Virginia city first to support POWER+
The City of Norton, in southwest Virginia, has voted unanimously to support a federal budget proposal that would steer billions of dollars for economic development to coal-impacted communities, including in Virginia. It’s the first such local resolution in the nation supporting the White House’s “POWER+ Plan.” Appalachian Voices championed the resolution with Norton’s leaders and commends them for leading the way on this vital issue.
Stream “protection” rule falls short
The Obama administration says its draft rule, released last week, to mitigate the water quality impacts of surface coal mining represents a “balanced approach to energy development.” But there’s nothing balanced about blowing the tops off ancient mountains and jeopardizing the health of thousands of Americans.
