Coal is our nation's most affordable, reliable and most plentiful energy resource and generates well over half of the electricity used in America. Today's coal-fired power plants must comply with a host of federal and state air regulations or they cannot operate. The Clean Air Act's National Ambient Air Quality Standards are health-based, meaning that they are set to ensure there is no impact on human health. America's power plants are using more low-sulfur coal, and thanks to improved scrubbing techniques, coal is getting cleaner before it goes to the power plant. These and other clean coal technologies allow for greater emissions reductions while improving power generating capabilities.
Coal production continues to reach record levels as consumption continues to increase.
In fact, coal use by utilities has increased by 85 percent since the mid-1970s, yet emissions of sulfur dioxide from coal combustion have dropped an astounding 34 percent and studies have shown that our air is actually getting cleaner. Millions of acres of mined lands have been reclaimed by coal producers and the mining industry pays billions of dollars to monitor, treat and prevent damage to ground and surface waters. These activities are regulated by the Clean Water Act and the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act, as well as various state and local statutes. It all adds up to an environmental legacy unsurpassed by any other major industry, and unequaled by any coal industry worldwide. Coal mining contributes to local economies by increasing the area's tax base, providing high-paying jobs for area residents and helps to create a lucrative environment for small businesses, which in turn, supports schools and other community services.