Shifting Energy Landscapes: The Cooper Family's Journey from Coal to Geothermal

Fri Dec 05 2025 19:02:05 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In Craig, Colorado, the Cooper family transitions from coal mining to geothermal energy, adapting to a changing economy as coal jobs decline amidst a clean energy shift.

The Cooper family in Craig, Colorado, known for their longstanding coal mining heritage, is navigating the transition to geothermal energy as the local coal industry wanes. With impending closures of coal mines and power plants, the family embraces a new business focusing on geothermal heat pumps. While many hope for a revival of coal jobs, the community is reimagining its energy future amid growing renewable energy initiatives.

CRAIG, Colo. (RTWNews) — The Cooper family is well-versed in heavy machinery; their children operated hay balers as teens and large drills in coal mines alongside their father. Yet, the transition to their family's new venture, High Altitude Geothermal, marks a different chapter—one focused on installing geothermal heat pumps that harness the Earth’s consistent temperature for heating and cooling.

The shift is not just about adapting to new technology; it symbolizes a significant change in a family legacy rooted in coal mining, now threatened by the phasing out of coal in favor of cleaner energy. Matt Cooper expresses the necessity for his family and others in Craig to explore alternatives beyond traditional coal jobs, underlining a collective need for economic diversification.

As the state transitions towards renewable energy, coal industries face pressure due to environmental concerns and rising costs. Craig’s local economy, long dependent on the coal sector, is entering a precarious period. The closure of one of three local mines is a stark reality for families like the Coopers who have been part of the energy landscape for generations.

While some remain hopeful that political efforts to bolster coal jobs will succeed—echoing sentiments from local workers—the reality of transitioning toward renewable resources is becoming increasingly clear. The Coopers, alongside other community members, are reengaging their entrepreneurial spirit in this transitional phase.

With growing investments in solar and wind power as more reliable and cost-effective sources of energy, Colorado is at the forefront of changing its energy profile by 2031, moving away from fossil fuels. As local families prepare themselves for these changes with new businesses, the uncertain future looms above those still reliant on coal, pushing them to adapt or seek opportunities elsewhere.

Yet, some residents, including former coal industry workers, are redefining their careers outside of coal, with new ventures ranging from distilleries to print shops, in hopes of sustaining Craig’s community identity amidst these transitions.