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EDITOR'S NOTE: Rather than email, we need you to MAIL a letter by January 17th.

Duke Energy is asking the NC Utilities Commission for permission to create one of the nation’s largest coal burning plants by expanding their Cliffside plant (60 miles west of Charlotte.) Unfortunately, Duke Energy is ignoring the opportunity for a clean energy future through renewable resources and energy efficiency programs.  

Write a letter to mail: We need you to mail a letter to the Utilities Commission about Duke's proposal. (Email comments are currently not being accepted.) 

Where to mail the letter: 
  NC Utilities Commission RE: Docket No. 7, Sub 790
  4325 Mail Service Center 
  Raleigh NC 27699-4325

What to say: See below for talking points. Two key issues to address in your letter:
1. Cost Increase: Duke's projection for two new coal units is now $3 billion. Customers will pay the amount with rate hikes.
2. Public Hearings Should Be Accessible: the Commission scheduled a Raleigh public hearing on Jan. 17th—but it's in the morning. Urge the Commission to schedule this hearing in the evening so the public can attend.

Tell us: Did you mail a letter? Tell us by emailing us below.

Public health and conservation organizations have been voicing concerns about new coal plants because:

• New coal burning facilities will increase carbon dioxide (global warming pollutant) and mercury emissions (22 species of fish in NC are contaminated with mercury).
• Duke Energy and NC should invest in energy efficiency programs and renewable energy instead of polluting power plants. Why? Details here. 
• Duke Energy wants to raise customers' rates in NC to pay for Cliffside. A recent cost estimate for its construction has jumped from $2 billion to $3 billion. 
• The NC Utilities Commission's mission is to promote energy conservation, "least cost" energy planning, and to include the public good in the regulation of power companies. Duke Energy's proposal for expanding its Cliffside plant is not the least cost option, is not in the public good, and does not promote energy conservation.  

For more detailed information click here.