The Coal Trap: Hidden Consequences of Stagnant Policy
Law Professor and author James Van Nostrand joins the Mining Team for a discussion about his book The Coal Trap: How West Virginia Was Left Behind in the Clean Energy Revolution. Van Nostrand tells the story of why West Virginia now faces overwhelming obstacles to competing in the economic marketplace of the twenty-first century. The book serves as a warning of how a fair energy transition can be derailed by political failure. Clearly–policy matters! A panel discussion will follow to explore the similarities and contrasts between West Virginia and Illinois energy policies. The discussion will provide an overview of the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, explore troubling concerns regarding Carbon Capture and Storage and explore how utility companies can do more to better serve their rate payers.