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“This is an industry where we can thrive because we are accustomed to mission-focused work, working together as a team and making good decisions under stress.”

“Whether and how Brandenburg can bridge the divide between Feldheim and Spremberg could hold lessons for other coal-dependent parts of the world struggling with similar transitions, from Appalachia to Poland.”

Eleven coal companies have filed for bankruptcy in the past two years as utilities change their business models. State data—even from Kentucky and West Virginia—shows coal-consumption declines accelerating.

Rich in renewable resources and governed now by a modernization-minded regime, “no state is better positioned to accelerate a transition to clean energy.”

Senate leaders from both parties now support shoring up pension funds and retiree healthcare. The long-awaited deal does not speak to underfunding of the federal black lung program, however.

“Your library is closing, your police department is operating part time, buildings are crumbling on Main Street, a key policy prescription would be for states and the federal government to provide substantially more support.”

A power change in the General Assembly sets the stage for a transition like that seen recently in several states embracing new plans for how electricity is generated.

Researchers see regional openings in repurposing old mine sites and in developing a stronger outdoor-recreation industry.

Two small communities are sharing $10 million in provincial-government reinvestment funds to help workers and businesses affected by the shutdown of local coal plants.

"Although not many in this room love the idea of the closure, the decision by the utility has been made and with that comes many challenges and, hopefully, opportunities.”