Coal's decline in the U.S. power grid is evident, with many coal units shut down and replaced by natural gas and renewables. Despite this trend, a significant portion of coal units has had their retirement delayed or canceled since 2017. States like Wyoming, which rely heavily on coal for electricity and revenue, push back against the decline, enacting laws to prolong the operational life of coal plants. This dependency reveals the intricate challenges faced in transitioning to cleaner energy sources without harming local economies.
Even though coal accounts for only about 16 percent of the nation's electricity, it retains substantial economic power in states like Wyoming, where coal is crucial for funding essential services.
Wyoming's dependence on coal is stark, with 71 percent of its electricity sourced from coal in 2023, down from 97 percent two decades ago, highlighting the state's struggle with economic transition.
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