Washington, D.C. – America’s Power commends members of the U.S. Senate for introducing a resolution designating October 19- 25 as National Coal Week. The measure honors the men and women of America’s coal industry and recognizes the essential role of coal-based electricity in powering the nation’s economy, ensuring grid reliability, and strengthening U.S. national security. In response, America’s Power President & CEO Michelle Bloodworth issued the following statement:
“Senate Resolution 457 is a well-deserved recognition of the men and women who power America through their work in the coal industry. Coal remains the backbone of our electric reliability and an indispensable pillar of U.S. energy security. As electricity demand accelerates, driven by manufacturing growth, electrification, and data centers, America will continue to rely on reliable and affordable electricity generated from coal.
“The AI race – and the corresponding need to meet soaring load growth – is a defining challenge of our time. Utilities and policymakers alike are sounding the alarm about reliability concerns, yet too many coal plants are still at risk of premature closure. Meeting this moment requires a clear-eyed commitment to preserving and investing in the coal fleet that serves as the foundation of our power grid. Thankfully, this Administration and Congress are actively working to do just that.
“This resolution is not just symbolic – it underscores a clear policy truth: America’s future depends on coal. We thank Senator Cynthia Lummis and the resolution’s co-sponsors for reaffirming that dependable, affordable, coal-based electricity remains essential to our economy and our national security.”