The Crisis of US Coal Communities: Strategies for a Just Transition to Renewable Energy

Abstract

Though coal was once a leading source of energy and economic growth, negative health impacts, detrimental environmental effects, and market forces have led to a rapid decline in production. Without nationwide legislation aiding them, coal-dependent communities in the US are suffering from financial downfall during this shift. Here, we propose three policy options to uplift these communities by providing subsidies to renewable energy companies that expand operations in former coal communities, reclaim the land, and provide job retraining. These options, alongside suggested federal funding for direct community aid, work cohesively to provide a lasting source of economic stability, improve environmental and public health in former coal-dependent communities, and mitigate the climate crisis. We call upon the Interagency Working Group on Coal and Power Plant Communities and Economic Revitalization (Interagency Working Group) to ensure the diversion of subsidies away from the coal industry and towards these efforts to promote a just transition for the affected communities.