‘They know that it can’t be coal moving forward’

[Pelican Press 0]

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‘They know that it can’t be coal moving forward’

Communities in Colorado that once relied on coal are exploring a bold new chapter — one that could keep their towns powered and their economies thriving. Former coal towns are now eyeing an alternative energy option as a promising path forward thanks to a new state law.

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, the new law includes nuclear power in Colorado’s definitions of “clean energy.” It also sets aside funding to explore whether small nuclear reactors could be a good fit for former coal towns. Now, communities once fueled by coal are taking a serious look at nuclear as a clean, reliable alternative to keep their economies strong and their lights on.

“We are not going to get to 100% carbon-free electricity with just solar and wind,”

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state Sen. Dylan Roberts, a co-sponsor of the bill, according to CBS News.

This transition offers a path forward for local economies facing the loss of coal jobs. “They want to be energy producers,”

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Roberts. “They know that it can’t be coal moving forward … but it could be these modern nuclear generators that are very safe and smaller scale and but still do produce good jobs and produce a lot of energy that can be sent throughout the region.”

Craig, a Colorado city of about

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, braces for the loss of roughly

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as coal mining winds down and energy plants shut their doors. For communities like Craig, nuclear power offers a chance to stay rooted in energy production while moving toward a cleaner, more resilient future.

As coal plants shut down, small modular nuclear reactors can potentially bring in skilled, long-term jobs — many of which could build on the existing expertise of former coal plant employees. Instead of economic decline, these communities could see a resurgence driven by clean energy innovation.

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This shift could also mean big wins for the environment. Nuclear energy doesn’t produce the carbon emissions that come from burning coal, which means cleaner air and a smaller climate footprint. And with today’s advanced technology, it’s possible to generate steady, round-the-clock power without the pollution. For communities making the transition, it’s a way to protect the natural landscapes they love while playing a key role in powering the region.

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#coal #moving

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