peabody

The companies expect to save $120 million a year over the first 10 years of working together.

The final decision rests with the Interior Board of Land Appeals, which is expected next month.

Self-bonds are reclamation obligations that a company essentially promises to pay, based on the health of a company's balance sheet.

New energy technology and tightening environmental regulations have throttled the industry and led to a wave of mine closures and jobs cuts.