The Wyoming Energy Authority (WEA) is issuing a request for proposals (RFP) to conduct a comprehensive Wyoming coal resource study, including supply, demand, investment interest, current and future mining constraints, the potential for exports and infrastructure needs, and regulatory barriers and reforms needed to maintain viable long-term thermal coal market for Wyoming.

The goals of this in-depth study are as follows:

Determine the status of Wyoming coal reserves within the Powder River Basin and Green River Basin.

Characterise the coal demand markets for thermal coal.

Determine capital investment interest in the construction of new coal-fired generation plants within the US market.

Evaluate new coal leasing required to provide a stable coal supply.

Determine what potential exists for increased coal export, review infrastructure that needs to be enhanced or built, and include timeframes for permitting and construction.

Define key regulatory constraints to leasing, permitting, mining, burning or using, and exporting Wyoming coal resources.

Provide recommendations to regulations and policy reform that would keep the thermal coal supply and demand markets viable.