Source:
Construction ExecDate :26/06/2008 06:55:46
The nation’s second largest utility provider has been given the go-ahead for the construction of a US$1.8 billion coal and biomass plant in the Appalachian Mountains.
The controversial project, which is like to make use of ‘mountaintop removal’ mining, was approved by the Virginia Air Pollution Control Board after a lengthy two day hearing that drew numerous protests.
The coal-fired facility has caused much consternation among those that are concerned over a potential rise in carbon emissions.
Construction imminent
"We have not yet had the opportunity to review the final permits, but this decision paves the way for us to start construction in the very near future," said Dominion in a statement.
The Virginia City Hybrid Energy Center would have a generating capacity of 585 megawatts, capable of powering approximately 146,000 homes.
The plant is designed to operate using a mix of fuels, including coal, coal waste known as "gob," and biomass. The US$1.8billion project will begin commercial operation in 2012.
