Class Year
2013
Document Type
Feature
Publication Date
2011
Abstract
The United States relies heavily on the assertion that domestic coal reserves supply the nation’s electricity with a continuing secure energy source. The oft-cited figure that a 150 year supply of domestic coal is available often underlies the energy policy debate. While energy plan proposals suggest reducing dependence on foreign oil, “clean coal” technology remains the focus for electricity generation. However, a closer look at the types of coal available displays flaws in this simplistic view of total reserves. Massachusetts already imports over eighty percent of the coal used to produce the state’s electricity from other countries, primarily Columbia.
Recommended Citation
Wildfire, Cynthia. "Global Trade: The Impact of Massachusetts’ Energy Policy on Columbia’s Mining Industry." Sustainable Development Law & Policy 11, no. 3 (2011): 21, 40-41.