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From Coal to Solar: Why Starfire Matters Now
Developers promise to re-invent Appalachia with multi-billion-dollar solar projects. Advocates are working to ensure those promises deliver real benefits without repeating the mistakes of the past.
On August 1, the Starfire Solar Project won regulatory approval to begin the first of four construction phases in Eastern Kentucky. The massive installation will convert nearly 8,000 acres of the former Starfire coal mine into a solar farm generating 800 megawatts of power.
The developers have pledged to hire locally, create 85 jobs in the first construction phase and contribute to a community fund. But history shows promises like these often go unfulfilled. In Martin County, a similar recent solar project promised 250–300 jobs but only 47 went to local residents. The developers also expect to receive “expedited bond release” of mine land that has not yet been stabilized through reclamation.
That’s why ACLC sent a formal letter to the Kentucky State Board on Electric Generation and Transmission Siting, urging them to attach strong, enforceable conditions before construction begins, including binding local hiring agreements and responsible land reclamation practices. Without these protections, the benefits to Appalachian communities could disappear once work is underway.
Making Starfire Work for Appalachia
Require contracts and quarterly jobs reports showing how many workers come from Perry, Knott, and Breathitt counties.
Avoid rushed reclamation and compacted surfaces. True reclamation reduces flood risk and protects downstream communities.
Most power is committed via corporate renewable energy credits, which is helpful for targets, but not for local bills. A binding fund can offset utility costs and invest in resilience and community well-being.
If reclamation is fast-tracked, communities at risk of flooding or landslides must have a chance to review and comment.
The Transition is Happening. Let’s Make it a Just Transition.
Despite fierce political resistance, this country is steadily moving from fossil fuels to renewable energy, and that is good for the future of the planet. Starfire can and should mean good jobs, safer land, and uplifted communities. The state must use its authority now, before construction begins, to require developers to keep the promises that they make to the region.
Read ACLC’s Letter to Kentucky Regulators
IN THE NEWS
Starfire is just one example of why strong protections are needed across Appalachia. ACLC is also taking action on other urgent issues, from disaster resilience to mine safety.
Kentucky Disaster Prevention and Resiliency Task Force
Stripped, unreclaimed mine lands and aging infrastructure put communities at significant flood risk. In June, ACLC joined the Kentucky Flood Resilience Coalition, Kentucky Conservation Committee, and Kentucky Waterways Alliance in urging state lawmakers to adopt stronger policies for prevention, preparedness, and recovery.
Lanny Erdos appointment to OSMRE
Bloomberg recently cited a joint letter from ACLC and other organizations opposing the nomination of former coal executive Lanny Erdos to lead the federal Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement. We warned that under his leadership, communities will have fewer pathways for holding coal companies accountable to environmental standards.
More to Explore
ACLC attorney Ella Helmuth recently spoke to Kentucky lawmakers on how post-flood debris removal must be done in a place-sensitive way to protect ecosystems and communities.
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