State Senator Robby Mills joined business leaders and local officials Tuesday to celebrate the grand opening of Alliance Coal’s newest underground mining facility in Henderson County.
The new operation is expected to employ more than 400 Kentuckians by the end of the year, delivering a major economic boost to the region.
The launch of the mine reflects renewed investment in Kentucky’s coal sector, signaling continued demand for affordable, reliable energy and highlighting the region’s role in helping power homes and businesses nationwide.
Senator Mills called the mine’s opening “a powerful symbol” of Kentucky coal’s continued national importance.
As a strong advocate for Kentucky energy producers, Mills has pushed for legislation that protects fossil fuel jobs while ensuring grid reliability. In 2023, he sponsored Senate Bill 4, which added stricter requirements for closing fossil fuel power plants, ensuring they remain operational unless replacements are proven ready and reliable.
A year later, Mills introduced Senate Bill 349 to create a long-term energy policy strategy aimed at keeping power prices low and jobs in the commonwealth.
Mills also highlighted that energy policy has a broader impact beyond power generation. He stressed that developments like the Henderson County Mine create meaningful job opportunities, increase local incomes and support long-term community growth.
Tuesday’s announcement is one of the largest recent private-sector job initiatives in western Kentucky.
