Alpha Natural Resources announced today that it has closed the deal with Lexington Coal Company (LCC) to convey real and personal properties located in Kentucky, Tennessee and West Virginia. While transferring mostly idle and non-active assets, substantial reclamation equipment and ongoing royalty payments associated with the properties, the conveyance also eliminates self-bonding in West Virginia nine years early.
New Lexington Coal CEO Steven Poe says the conveyance includes approximately 250 permits and bonding representing $192 million. “Having five mines that are currently in coal production, substantial infrastructure and capital, and an experienced, talented workforce will enable LCC to accelerate reclamation on a five-year timetable with less contingent exposure for the states in which we operate,” said Poe.
Poe says LCC will mine to reclaim, which will lower the cost of reclamation and will bring in revenue while the company continues to divest isolated assets as markets warrant. “Our management team knows the properties and permits, and has a demonstrated track record of success,” said Poe. “Having 100 million tons of reserves will ensure a long runway for the assets, providing job security and continued opportunities where we operate.”
Funding for the transaction was provided by key shareholders under a $150 million credit facility. Additionally, LCC will receive approximately $199 million in cash and $126 million in installment payments to assist in the fulfillment of bonding, reclamation, water treatment and other obligations.
Alpha will continue to operate 20 mines and 9 prep plants in West Virginia, and the company still expects to produce 14 million tons of metallurgical and thermal coal in 2017.