Associated Press . Washington

US governors pushing alternative energy development are not shying from coal, a major culprit in global warming but also a homegrown energy source and an economic lifeline for many states.

Leaders of coal-rich states say clean-coal technology is a must. Governors from states without coal want more evidence the technology works.

'There's no doubt there's a tension and there's no doubt there is very rapidly growing public opposition to coal,' said Gov. Jim Doyle, D-Wis.

His state relies heavily on coal for power although Wisconsin is not a coal producer. Energy tops the agenda at the governors' annual winter meeting.

The group's new clean energy initiative seeks to promote renewable fuels such as ethanol and biodiesel and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

'Next-generation coal is going to need to continue to be part of our energy future for this country,' said GOP Gov Tim Pawlenty of Minnesota, chairman of the National Governors Association.

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