The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced a $625 million investment on Sept. 29 to reinvigorate and expand America’s coal industry. The newly funded projects seek to boost energy production and support coal communities nationwide.
The funding was issued in accordance with the current administration’s executive orders “Reinvigorating America’s Beautiful Clean Coal Industry” and “Strengthening the Reliability and Security of the United States Electric Grid.” The expansion of the coal industry is essential to power reindustrialization across the country, fuel AI production and aid in its increased usage, help keep energy supply consistent, and is vital to keep electricity prices low.
The total $625 million funding will be split across different categories focusing on certain aspects of the coal reinvigoration.
Coal Recommissioning and Retrofit – $350 million to support projects to demonstrate readiness to recommission or modernize coal power units and provide near-term electric power reliability and capacity.
Rural Capacity and Energy Affordability Projects – $175 million for coal power projects that provide direct benefits of energy affordability, reliability, and resiliency in rural communities.
Development and Implementation of Advanced Wastewater Management Systems – $50 million to support projects that demonstrate scalable, cost-effective wastewater management systems that enable coal plants to extend their service life, reduce operational costs, and enhance commercial byproduct recovery.
Engineering and Implementation of Dual Firing Retrofits – $25 million to support projects that enable coal power plants to seamlessly switch between fuels, achieve full steam capacity, and economic flexibility to extend plant lifespans.
Development and Testing of Natural Gas Cofiring Systems – $25 million to support investments that will maintain boiler efficiency and reliability when utilizing 100% natural gas.
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