FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 15, 2026
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Chris Hamilton
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Charleston, W.Va. — The America’s Coal Associations today applauded the Trump Administration and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for finalizing the repeal of the Biden-era power-plant Carbon Rule and proposing to rescind remaining greenhouse-gas regulations for power plants under Section 111 of the Clean Air Act.
The EPA action eliminates costly mandates that would have required coal-fired power plants to install carbon-capture technology that is not broadly demonstrated or commercially viable for the nation’s existing coal fleet. EPA estimates the repeal will save more than $300 billion nationwide.
“Today’s action is a win for America’s coal, our electric grid, and the families and businesses that depend on affordable, reliable power,” said Chris Hamilton, President of the West Virginia Coal Association. “The prior rule threatened to force the premature retirement of dependable coal-fired generation and impose enormous compliance costs that ultimately would have been paid by ratepayers.”
“Coal-fired power plants remain vital to our nation’s economy and regional grid reliability, delivering around-the-clock electricity during periods of peak demand, extreme weather, and emergencies,” said Travis Deti, President of the Wyoming Coal Association.
Savannah Kerstiens, President of Reliable Energy says, “By removing burdensome federal carbon mandates, the EPA’s action helps preserve dispatchable generation, protect jobs, and reduce pressure for unnecessary increases in household and business electric bills.”
“Keeping proven coal generation available means protecting families from higher power bills and ensuring our communities, hospitals, schools, manufacturers, and small businesses have the electricity they need when they need it,” said Brian Somers, President of the Utah Mining Association.
“Policies under previous administrations were advanced with the intent to prematurely shutter coal plants and other sources of American energy, drive up rates, and put our electric grids at risk,” said Rachel Gleason, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Coal Alliance. “The Trump Administration’s repeal of the Rule, which never took effect as it was held in abeyance by the Court, rightfully recognizes that collective intent by acknowledging a lack of authority, and the technology required by the Rule has not been adequately demonstrated.”
The Associations urges EPA to finalize its proposal to rescind the remaining power-sector greenhouse-gas standards and continue supporting policies that protect reliable energy, competitive electric rates, and energy-producing communities.
America’s Coal Associations looks forward to working with federal and state partners to ensure the successful deployment of these resources and to continue advancing policies that support coal communities and domestic energy production.
America’s Coal Associations are comprised of the following state mining associations and coal advocacy groups which account for 381,000 men and woman who are employed by the nation’s coal industry and $261 Billion in annual economic impact. America’s Coal Associations members mine both high grade thermal coal used to generate electricity and the world’s finest metallurgical coals used around the country and world for manufacturing and infrastructure.
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