Commitment to the Environment
Protection of the environment is a challenging and ongoing process, made more complex by the equally important national goal of maintaining economic growth and stability. Landmark policies such as the Clean Air Act have set the tone for regulations that provide a proper balance between these national objectives. The coal and electric utility industries have effected significant environmental improvements that meet or exceed government regulations, and they have a strong track record of success on which to build. Importantly, this commitment to the environment has occurred while demand for electricity has increased.

• Electricity generation from all sources has increased 62 percent between 1980 and 2001. Generation from coal has increased 64 percent during this period.

  EIA, Annual Energy Review 2001, T.8.2a

• The U.S. population has increased 26 percent in that time.

  EIA, Annual Energy Review 2001, T.E1