Alva Review-Courier -

MAIDSVILLE, W.Va. (AP) — U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry said Thursday that coal-fired power plants are important for the country's future, and he suggested that energy supply will spark demand.

After touring a coal-fired power plant, Perry was asked about the economics of coal when natural gas is far cheaper. West Virginia currently has a boom in gas production but needs more shipping capacity. Several pipeline projects are under way.

"Here's a little economics lesson, supply and demand: You put the supply out there and the demand will follow that," Perry said. "The market will decide which...