HD42 - Report of the Coal and Energy Commission


Executive Summary:
Since 1979, it has been the charge of the Virginia Coal and Energy Commission to "study all aspects of coal as an energy resource and ... to stimulate, encourage, promote, and assist in the development of renewable energy resources ..." (§ 9-145.1 of the Code of Virginia). This document constitutes the Commission's report regarding its activities during 1987.

The full Commission held two meetings during 1987. Testimony was received at these meetings regarding the following topics: state/federal fossil research and development initiatives, liquid coal research and locomotive engine application, the purchase of Virginia coal by state facilities and the impact of Va. Code § 11-47.1, the purchase of Virginia coal by utilities in Virginia and the impact of the Virginia Coal Employment and Production Incentive Tax Credit Act, the impacts of the solar tax credits, economic development in Virginia coal counties and strategies for the future, and subsidence due to mining.

This report also discusses the deliberations of the Commission's subcommittees.