Energy Report
A digest of regional energy news
Mine Permit Disputes on Coal River Mountain
Coal River Mountain Watch continues to fight mountaintop removal coal mining in West Virginia. Alpha Natural Resources and its subsidiaries hold four active surface coal mining permits on Coal River Mountain that cover 5,600 acres.
Fracking and Natural Gas Updates
Studies have found that fracking waste can have have a negative impact on water quality and that noise from fracking can have negative health impacts. A federal agency is considering allowing oil and gas companies to harm endangered bats.
Miners’ Benefits at Stake in Washington
Efforts to protect miners’ pensions and health benefits are in the hands of members of Congress.
Surface Mining Banned in 75,000 Acres of Tennessee, But New Mine Proposed
In December 2016, mountaintop removal coal mining was banned from 75,000 acres in East Tennessee. Yet other mining permits continue to be issued.
Regional Coal Ash News
Community and environmental groups in North Carolina, Virginia and Tennessee continue to push for clean up of the coal ash in their areas and for access to clean water provided.
