1) I don’t see how this is a problem. First we are not only dependent on these and have a mix of natural gas , nuclear as well as coal. Out of all coal is the dirtiest for direct pollution into the atmosphere. If we can reduce or eliminate coal by replacing it with wind and solar that is a good thing. Technology will improve to improve storage.

2) while this is an issue coal has been declining for some time. There are health issues with coal and the jobs have been shrinking and half of coal jobs have been lost since 2012. This is with coal usage higher today. The jobs will continue to be reduced regardless. Part of the 2 trillion dollar infrastructure plan includes training and assistance for jobs like coal miner lost. That is the best solution possible for jobs that will not exist in 100 years unless there is suddenly a new purpose for coal.

Nacco industries for example is expecting the closing of one mine and plant this year in Texas. It is attempting to diversify into lithium and other minerals. There is a small fight from at least one state senator that may keep it another year but over all it’s not economically viable to keep it with other alternatives.