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SB 333

Remediated Mine Gas Grant Program; established, report.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Travis Hackworth and 1 co-sponsor

Virginia bill allows electricity from captured mine methane to count as renewable energy, incentivizing mine remediation while raising questions about fossil fuel favoritism.

Governor's Action Deadline 11:59 p.m., April 13, 2026
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Bill Summary · SB 333

Legislative bill overview

SB 333 proposes to allow electricity generated from remediated mine gas to qualify toward Virginia's renewable portfolio standard (RPS). The bill would treat methane captured and converted to energy from abandoned or reclaimed mining operations as a renewable energy source, potentially creating economic incentives for mine remediation projects while expanding renewable energy resources.

Why is this important

Virginia's RPS currently mandates that utilities source increasing percentages of electricity from renewable sources. This bill would create a new category of qualifying renewable energy, potentially unlocking economic value from abandoned mines while addressing methane emissions—a potent greenhouse gas. However, it also raises questions about what qualifies as truly "renewable" or environmentally beneficial energy policy.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition of "renewable": Mine gas energy, while capturing fugitive methane emissions, uses fossil fuel combustion rather than truly renewable sources like solar or wind, creating debate over whether it should count toward renewable energy targets
  • Financial incentives and market distortion: Allowing mine gas to count toward RPS may create unintended subsidies for coal industry remediation while potentially slowing transition to actual renewables
  • Environmental justice concerns: Questions about whether prioritizing coal country remediation projects diverts resources and policy focus from broader renewable energy development across Virginia

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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