August 15, 2024 - The Bluefield Coal Symposium is calling it a wrap, finishing up its third and final day of events on Wednesday afternoon.

Wednesday’s events included a panel discussion from leaders in the coal industry, including the president and CEO of the West Virginia Coal Association, Chris Hamilton.

During Hamilton’s time on the panel he talked with attendees about the need for coal power and what he believes may be in store for the future.

“There’s been a lot of regulatory matters, legislative matters, a lot of the aspects of the industry that’s been discussed,” said Hamilton. “I think there’s a basic need for it (coal) and our coal miners and coal operations around the state and region will be prepared to meet that need.”

The president and CEO for Consol Energy, Jimmy Brock also spoke on a new initiative he referred to as “Not So Fast”. The mission of the enterprise is to warn of the dangers of switching away from fossil fuels too quickly in favor of other energy sources.

“It’s about educating the public, those stakeholders and policy makers that transitioning away from fossil fuels comes with extreme consequences,” said Brock. “Consequences that I don’t believe the American people are willing to take at this time.

Other panel speakers included the president and CEO for America’s Power, Michelle Bloodworth.

The Bluefield Coal Symposium may be over but the Bluefield Coal and Mining Show will make its return next September at the Brushfork Armory.