WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) released the below statement regarding the Trump administration’s intent to use the Federal Power Act and the Defense Production Act to mandate the continued operation of coal-fired and nuclear power plants.
“I am very supportive of the administration’s decision to take action to preserve our coal-fired and nuclear power plants. The recent series of winter storms caused thousands of power outages and drove up rates due to reduced supply, highlighting just how important it is that we have access to affordable and reliable energy sources. As it has done time and time again over the years, coal proved to be exactly what we needed to power the country, demonstrating its importance in keeping the lights on when other resources were unavailable. I am encouraged by the president’s actions to protect our nation from these plant closures and ensure coal power is available to address future weather, market, and cybersecurity challenges. Doing so will be vital to our state’s economy and to our nation’s viability, security, and independence.”
# # #