Thursday, June 26, 2025 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM ET
Join us June 26 at noon ET via Zoom – to learn about new research into how Appalachia could become a leader in the domestic manufacturing of much-needed wind energy parts.
As energy needs continue to increase, the US will need to rely on a diverse range of energy production methods to meet demand. Wind energy is an important part of the country’s energy portfolio, and while advances in technology mean increased performance, new challenges also arise. One issue is the production and transportation of new wind turbine blades which are too large to travel by road or rail. The waterways which once shipped coal around the world now give Central Appalachia a key advantage in the production and shipping of the very large wind turbines. Shuttered coal plant sites with convenient access to these waterways provide a promising space for manufacturing wind energy parts.
Following a presentation on the research, there will be time for a discussion and a chance to ask any questions. Our goal is to create resources to support community leaders working to transform Appalachia into a manufacturing hub for the new clean economy.
This event is part of our Summer 2025 Manufacturing Series, an ongoing series of events sharing new research on opportunities within Appalachia’s manufacturing sector, from growing feedstocks to producing final products. This series of listening sessions will explore the specific opportunities to leverage the region’s historical assets for the new energy economy and create a hub for sustainable manufacturing. Appalachians should have a say in the work to keep opportunities in the region and support the creation of a 21st century economy that’s good for workers, communities, and the environment.