From Coal to Geothermal: A Career Transformation
Matt Cooper, a longtime coal industry worker and father of three from Colorado, made a significant career change after learning his coal plant would cease operations by the end of the decade.
In 2024, he established High Altitude Geothermal, a drilling business that capitalizes on skills from the fossil fuel sector. Cooper recognized geothermal energy's growing potential in Colorado, supported by state and federal incentives.
State Initiatives and Industry Trends
In 2023, Governor Jared Polis introduced the "Heat Beneath Our Feet" initiative to advance geothermal development statewide, as reported by CPR News.
The U.S. Energy Information Administration highlights a national decline in coal production over the past twenty years, driven by renewable energy expansion and lower natural gas prices.
With Cooper's plant scheduled to close in 2028, according to the Colorado Sun, he proactively sought new opportunities.
Geothermal Applications and Community Impact
Geothermal energy serves multiple purposes, including building heating and cooling, electricity generation, and district heating systems for neighborhoods.
Cooper's heavy machinery expertise proves valuable in his new venture. His family, including his wife and two sons who are coal miners, assists in the business.
The transition supports Colorado's goal to eliminate fossil fuels by 2050. As six additional coal plants are set to close by 2030, geothermal offers a viable path for energy sector workers.
Challenges and Support Systems
Moffat County, where Cooper resides, faces significant economic impacts from plant closures, with the local facility contributing one-third of property taxes in 2022, as noted by Canary Media.
Colorado's Office of Just Transition provides job placement, training, financial counseling, and community grants to assist affected workers and regions.
While mourning the coal industry's decline, Cooper remains hopeful about geothermal's future.
Efficiency and Employment Opportunities
Geothermal heat pumps are recognized as highly efficient for climate control, utilizing the Earth's stable temperatures between 45 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cooper explained that these systems benefit the electrical grid by providing consistent heating, reducing cost spikes and demand surges.
His company, the first of its kind in Moffat County, will serve neighboring areas. Approximately 75% of Colorado's coal mining workforce lives in this region, potentially finding new roles in geothermal.
"Hiring displaced coal workers was part of Matt's 'why' for starting this business," Kristine, his wife, said. "He wanted to be part of the solution for the employment of these individuals."
"It works wonderfully well," Cooper added, referring to the transition to geothermal energy.
