Tag: coal

Another reminder of why coal ain’t the answer

September 24, 2012 at 9:15 amCategory:Uncategorized

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Thanks to Steve Harrison at Blue NC this morning for highlighting and critiquing a pair of dueling essays in yesterday’s Charlotte Observer on the sobering subject of coal ash (the waste that results from burning coal and, in part, from “scrubbing” the exhaust so that we keep the air a smidge cleaner).  

The bottom line takeaway: The innumerable problems with coal ash are just another reminder of why we are kidding ourselves if we pretend that coal is a viable long-term solution to the world’s energy challenge.

(Photo courtesy of the Southern Environmental Law Center).  

Electricity’s Thirst for Water

November 18, 2011 at 9:10 amCategory:Uncategorized

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Coal and nuclear power plants in North Carolina that guzzle water for their operations are stressing our water supplies, according to a new report by the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) and a team of more than a dozen scientists. Read More…

An Opportunity in the Duke-Progress Merger

October 6, 2011 at 3:11 pmCategory:Uncategorized

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A wrench was thrown into the Duke and Progress Energy merger on Friday by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) which must approve the companies joining together before it can be finalized.  The federal agency wants to hear from the utilities about how they will address “already excessive levels of market concentration.”

This wrench is a huge opportunity for consumers, the renewable energy business and its advocates.  Those concerned about the merger should take full advantage of the uncertain moment and press for changes that will not only look after consumers but also advance energy efficiency and renewable energy to do our part to combat global warming. Read More…

A Retirement Plan for King Coal

May 20, 2011 at 12:32 pmCategory:Uncategorized

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It’s time for King Coal to retire. Since the Industrial Revolution, coal has been in large-scale use for energy production and polluting our health and our planet. All the information and technology we need to retire coal burning in North Carolina exists. Now we need political and corporate leadership, investments and a plan. Read More…

Stacking the Deck for Humanity

May 11, 2011 at 4:29 pmCategory:Uncategorized

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When it comes to stacking the card deck in one’s favor, no one seems more adept than dirty energy industries, namely oil, coal and gas. These companies enjoy enormous government subsidies, huge profits and executive salaries most of us couldn’t imagine.

North Carolina has an important role in leveling the playing field for renewable energy, given our renewable potential. But so far, it appears that decision-makers will continue to stack the deck in favor of dirty energy. Here’s how … Read More…