Coal communities in the Central Appalachian region are bearing the consequences of a global energy transition. Demand for coal continues to decline as utilities switch to natural gas-fired generation and renewable energy resources, while regulation of fossil fuel pollutants has become more stringent due to concerns about public health and the global climate. Policymakers at the federal level are recognizing the pressing need for addressing the devastating impacts being borne by coal communities arising from this “clean energy” transition.

The fifth annual National Energy Conference, hosted by the West Virginia University College of Law, will examine the cause and effect of these trends in the coal industry, the economy-wide repercussions within Central Appalachia, and possible solutions for West Virginia that would put the state on a more resilient path.

This free, one-day conference features speakers from industry, academic institutions, public policy organizations, and environmental groups, highlighted by keynote speaker  Senator Jay Rockefeller. Other featured speakers include  Charles Patton  of Appalachian Power,  Adele Morris of the Brookings Institution,  Michael Gerrard of the Sabin Center for Climate Change Law at Columbia Law School, and John Deskins of the WVU Bureau of Business and Economic Research.