Despite mounting tensions over the future use of coal in electricity production, Appalachian Power said there is no diversion in its present strategy.

Appalachian’s parent company, American Electric Power, advertised for bids last week seeking 7.4 million tons of coal on the spot market, causing some unease about the company’s future plans. Company officials have reassured it is part of their normal strategy.

“We use a combination of contracts,” said Jeri Matheney, Appalachian Power’s communications director. “We get long-term, short-term and still end with spot coal. That’s all we’re doing, looking for proposals for spot coal.”

There is growing unrest in the coal industry as low-cost natural gas and other fuels become attractive alternatives amid proposed regulations from federal regulators. Matheney said there has been no change in Appalachian Power’s coal-reliant strategy.

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