US DoE allocates $175 million for coal plant upgrades

The US Department of Energy (DoE) has announced $175 million in funding for six projects focused on modernising, retrofitting, and extending the operational life of coal-fired power plants serving rural and remote communities across the United States. The awards form part of the department’s broader $525 million programme aimed at improving reliability and efficiency across the coal fleet through targeted upgrades using existing transmission infrastructure.

The DoE stated that the programme is intended to support energy affordability, grid reliability, and employment stability in regions historically dependent on coal-based generation. By upgrading existing thermal assets, the initiative seeks to utilise established grid connections as a cost-effective way to retain dependable generation capacity amid rising electricity demand.

Energy Secretary Chris Wright said the funding aligns with the administration’s objective of maintaining round-the-clock generation capacity. He stated that the investments are intended to keep coal plants operating, manage electricity costs, and support reliable power supply.

Funding has been awarded to six projects. Appalachian Power Company will modernise the Mountaineer Power Plant in Letart, West Virginia, and the John E. Amos Power Plant in Winfield, West Virginia. Buckeye Power will undertake upgrades to Units 1 and 2 at the Cardinal Plant in Brilliant, Ohio. Duke Energy Carolinas will implement enhancements at two units of the Belews Creek Steam Station in Sauratown Township, North Carolina. Kentucky Utilities Corporation will carry out efficiency improvements at Unit 2 of the Ghent Generating Station in Ghent, Kentucky. Monongahela Power Company will execute system upgrades at the Fort Martin Power Station in Maidsville, West Virginia. Ohio Valley Electric Corporation will modernise five generating units at the Kyger Creek Station in Cheshire, Ohio.

The DoE indicated that these projects are expected to improve grid resilience, extend plant operating life, and help stabilise electricity costs. The department added that upgrading existing thermal infrastructure remains a practical approach to maintaining reliable capacity while leveraging established transmission networks.

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