As lawmakers revisit energy tax credits, Virginia Del. Will Morefield (43rd District) highlights the impacts of CMM capture in Southwest Virginia and its replicability nationwide

In a RealClearEnergy op-ed, Virginia Delegate Will Morefield argues that coal mine methane (CMM) capture offers a proven model for economic growth in coal communities and calls on Congress to back it with federal tax credit support. Morefield draws on a recent study by Chmura Economics & Analytics to highlight the importance of CMM capture as an important component of Southwest Virginia’s energy production and economic growth. As Congress and the Trump Administration weigh in on the future of U.S. energy production, CMM capture offers an avenue to support job creation, boost economic growth, and unleash American energy.

In the op-ed, Del. Morefield writes that “with the help of new technology and investments, the coal and natural gas industries are creating pathways for growth in our communities—such as mine methane capture—revitalizing local economies, supporting jobs, and turning waste into valuable energy assets.” He adds that in 2024 alone, “coal mine methane projects and the natural gas industry contributed to $481.7 million in economic impact and supported over 1,100 jobs in Southwest Virginia.”

He also writes that while this opportunity can be replicated in coal mining communities in other states with adequate support, CMM projects are currently excluded from existing tax incentives. He points out that currently “other waste-derived fuels such as renewable natural gas (RNG) benefit from existing incentives, including the Renewable Fuel Standard program and state-level Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS), while coal communities and coal mine methane are left behind.”

He argues that by “giving coal mine methane projects access to the same credit structure as other technologies,” as proposed in the recently reintroduced Methane Reduction and Economic Growth Act, “Congress can attract investment, reduce barriers, and ensure rural energy workers aren’t left behind.” Morefield makes it clear that this change will allow CMM projects to expand in Southwest Virginia and unlock similar opportunities across the country.

The Chmura Economics & Analytics study cited in the op-ed analyzed the economic impact of the coal and natural gas industries, along with the Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority (VCEDA). The industries generated over $13.4 billion in economic output and supported over 51,000 jobs in 2024. Additionally, the study found that the growth of these industries has led to economic diversification, reduced unemployment, and lowered reliance on government assistance programs.

About the WGCI

The WGCI represents leading American energy industry partners, NGOs, and experts who are committed to recognizing the economic benefits and environmental impact of a strong mine methane capture industry. Visit wastegascapture.com and follow @WGCInitiative on X (formerly known as Twitter) and LinkedIn for more information.

###