A New Economy for Appalachia
America’s energy landscape has changed dramatically in recent years, resulting in substantial economic impacts in Central Appalachia, which has historically been driven by the coal industry. The inevitable decline of the coal industry is causing hardship for many families in the region and serves as a wake-up call that now is the time to diversify our economy.
A window of opportunity has opened for Central Appalachia. Recognizing this, a growing number of local residents, elected officials, economic development leaders and institutions are making choices to move toward a new economy, and calling for policies and ways of thinking to carry the region into a future of economic resilience and shared prosperity.
Appalachian Voices is integrally involved in this challenge, bringing to bear the four key principles of community engagement, economic diversification, land restoration and growing the clean energy sector. Our New Economy for Appalachia program is based out of our Norton, Va., office in the heart of Southwest Virginia’s coal country.
We facilitate opportunities for residents from all walks of life and with diverse backgrounds and perspectives to become more engaged in sharing ideas and making decisions about their economic future. We hosted community visioning forums and built an online “wiki” site to provide citizens an opportunity to make their voices heard. In 2016, we participated in the University of Virginia College at Wise’s “Economic Forum of 2016,” a first-ever event of its scope, drawing hundreds of citizens, economic development experts and others.
While our efforts are focused in Southwest Virginia, we recognize that the movement for a just transition away from the coal economy is a regional one, and closely collaborate with partner groups working toward similar goals. Together with citizens, leaders and organizations across Central Appalachia, we are pressing for increased federal funding to help mountain communities diversify their economies by transforming previously mined lands into sites for sensible economic development, and working to bring investments in solar and other renewable energies to the region.
Our Mountain Ascent newsletter celebrates the victories in our efforts to build a new economy in the coalfields.
Latest News
Solar Strides in Southwest Virginia
Appalachian Voices applauds the achievement of eight Southwest Virginia municipalities for receiving SolSmart designations that will help pave the way for solar projects in the region. Additionally, the Solar Workgroup of Southwest Virginia received state funding to identify opportunities for large-scale solar manufacturing and development
Southwest Virginia Communities Designated as Solar-friendly
Eight communities in Southwest Virginia achieved designation under the nationwide SolSmart program in July for taking steps to pave the way for solar projects in their municipalities.
Southwest Virginia takes powerful steps to advance solar energy
A big week for solar energy in Southwest Virginia includes celebrating eight communities for their advancements in solar and the announcement of a substantial grant to build a big solar project on a former mine site.
Southwest Virginia communities first in Central Appalachia to achieve national recognition for advancing solar energy
Saint Paul, VA, July 25, 2019 – Eight…
Advocates for Appalachia in D.C. this week
Meet Laura Miller, Jacob Hannah and Darrell Coker — three Appalachians who traveled to D.C. this week to stand up for their communities and advocate for passage of the RECLAIM Act.
The Appalachian African American Cultural Center
One couple’s mission to preserve community history in Southwest Virginia.
