📌 Federal Investment in Coal: $625M to Open 13M Acres in Wyoming

The U.S. Department of the Interior announced a $625 million plan to modernize coal-fired power plants and open 13.1 million acres of federal land for new coal leases. Wyoming, which produces about 40% of the nation’s coal, is expected to be a major participant. State officials said the plan could support local jobs, extend the operating life of coal plants, and maintain energy reliability. Governor Mark Gordon described the initiative as a benefit for consumers, the power grid, and coal-dependent communities.

What You Need to Know:

• 🏘️ Local impact: With Wyoming coal supplying half the U.S., changes in demand and leasing could affect jobs and revenues in Uinta County.
• 💰 $625 million investment: Funding will modernize coal plants, support rural energy projects, and test dual-fuel technologies.
• 🌎 13.1 million acres opened: Federal land now available for new coal leasing, a major boost for Wyoming’s Powder River Basin.
• 👷 Jobs & economy: Wyoming employs about 3,400 coal workers; leaders say this move will strengthen job security and the state economy.
• 🏛️ Political support: Gov. Mark Gordon and Sen. John Barrasso praised the announcement, calling it a win for consumers, grid reliability, and coal communities.
• 🔮 Future outlook: Federal agencies are coordinating to ease regulations, reduce leasing delays, and explore critical minerals in coal byproducts.

How do you see these coal investments affecting our local community? Share your thoughts on the discussion on Facebook.

Original article here: https://cowboystatedaily.com/2025/09/29/wyoming-cheers-as-trump-injects-625m-into-u-s-coal-opens-13m-acres-for-leasing/