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Local officials and nonprofits are exploring solutions to the economic impacts of future coal plant closures

The Western Organization of Resource Councils estimates that coal mine reclamation “could generate approximately 4,893 to 9,786 job-years” across four western states.

"The rapidly changing energy landscape makes it critical for the burdens of fossil fuel workers and communities to be assessed in all utility planning, so that we aren’t left behind, once again."

As coal demand plummets, all miners at Buckskin mine are out of work following 60 earlier furloughs in March.

The Environmental Defense Fund and Resources for the Future are collaborating on an extensive research project to assess existing policy proposals that address the needs of fossil fuel workers and communities during the energy transition.

The Powder River Basin Resource Council launched a four-part webinar series during the COVID-19 pandemic to help communities in Wyoming and beyond prepare for the ongoing transition from coal.

As the state moves to 100% renewable energy, communities that relied on coal facilities for jobs and economic growth are pushing for equity in emerging clean energy opportunities.

“Utilities that have exploited our resources for half a century owe us economic support to transition,” writes the author, a Navajo activist and a champion of reinvestment. “Fortunately, opportunities exist.”

The U.S. Energy Information Administration sees coal production plummeting by 29 percent this year over last year, a trend driven by market and one that is most likely irreversible.

Layoffs and bankruptcies lay bare the price of overreliance on a rapidly fading industry: “Losses in coal country have steep consequences for the state — exacerbating unemployment and accelerating revenue shortfalls.”