The Nature Conservancy (TNC) has announced a series of solar energy projects on former coal mines in the Appalachian Mountains , one of the most historic regions for mining. In collaboration with ENGIE and Sun Tribe Development, TNC will develop 17 projects that include both photovoltaics and battery storage.
The initiative, which aims to revitalize local economies, will take place in Virginia, Tennessee and Kentucky, three states affected by coal mining.
TNC boosts renewable energy in Appalachia
This effort is part of TNC’s Cumberland Forest Project , which aims to demonstrate that clean energy can be cost-effectively generated on land previously used for mining. Output from these projects is expected to provide enough energy to power more than 6,600 Appalachian homes annually, representing a significant step toward regional sustainability.
Solar energy will be the central focus of the projects, totaling approximately 49 megawatts (MW) of capacity , complemented by 320 MW of battery storage . These facilities, in addition to providing renewable energy, will also increase the reliability of the local power grid, reducing the need for costly future infrastructure upgrades, and the initiative will enable the creation of local jobs and generate significant tax revenue for the communities involved.
Solar energy and battery storage
ENGIE’s projects will focus primarily on converting coal mines into solar facilities in Virginia, Tennessee and Kentucky, with capacities ranging from 1 to 6 MW per facility . Sun Tribe, meanwhile, will develop large battery energy storage systems, which will improve grid stability and reduce costs for utility users.
This energy transformation model is aligned with TNC’s sustainability goals, which highlight that these efforts address climate change and represent an opportunity for economic revitalization for communities historically dependent on mining.
TNC and partners transform coal mines
Brad Kreps, director of TNC Clinch Valley, emphasized the importance of working with developers like ENGIE and Sun Tribe, who have demonstrated their commitment to creating innovative solutions to harness the potential of clean energy .
Collaboration with these experts is essential to effectively transform former coal mines into solar power generators, benefiting communities and the environment at the same time.
As the projects progress, they are expected to create a lasting impact in the region, establishing a replicable model for renewable energy development on previously undeveloped land. In addition, the efforts will benefit from incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act , which will help keep costs low and maximize benefits for both developers and local communities.
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Source and photo: The Nature Conservancy
