Local politicians met in Tazewell County for a tour of a mine methane capture facility

CEDAR BLUFF, VA (WVNS) – It was a smooth landing over at the Tazewell County Airport on the afternoon of Thursday, July 11, 2024. The landing corresponded with the arrival of the Ways and Means Supply Chain Tax Team from Washington D.C.

U.S. representatives Carol Miller of West Virginia and Morgan Griffith of Virginia both are acting as part of the team.

So what brought up the visit? These politicians were actually in the area to tour a Mine Methane Capture Facility.

Miller claims mine methane emission is not just an issue here in the mountain state.

When you look at Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, we all have similar economies in our mountains. We’ve been energy producers for generations and we want to continue to fuel our country and sell energy abroad.”

U.S. Representative Carol Miller, (R) West Virginia

In Tazewell County, the mine methane extraction facility is operated by CNX Resources. Once the methane is captured, it can be used in a variety of beneficial ways including electric generation, home heating, and as a source of alternative fuel.

A representative for CNX said they are excited about what the future holds.

I think the important goal for us is to make sure this region continues to have energy and the energy resources and energy jobs. And this region continues to supply the broader region for its energy needs and whatever that energy is.”

Ravi Srivastava, President of New Technologies for CNX Resources

Miller, along with several colleagues, introduced the Methane Reduction and Economic Growth Act in 2023.

This bill would requalify methane and update a tax credit to include any mine methane. Miller said these tours will hopefully educate the public and Congress about mine methane capture.

It’s just part of educating Congress about what we can do in our country, because we are, we have, and can continue to be energy independent and sell our energy abroad.”

U.S. Representative Carol Miller, (R) West Virginia

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