Duke Energy announced it’s controversial plan to build a 45-mile transmission line from Upstate South Carolina to Western North Carolina has been dropped in favor of building two smaller gas units in Asheville.
The company announced November 4, 2015 that it will replace it’s coal plant in Asheville with two smaller gas units rather than building one large one. Duke Energy says that would mean the proposed transmission lines – from the Campobello area to Asheville – are no longer needed.
Duke Energy officials held a series of public meetings throughout the area to hear concerns from people about building such a transmission line. The impact on the natural scenery was one of the major concerns expressed.
“The new plan balances the concerns raised by the community and the very real need for more electricity to serve this growing region,” said spokesman LLoyd Yates.
Duke Energy says it’s coal units are still scheduled to be retired at the Asheville Power Plant by 2020. Two natural gas units will be built at the site. A third unit could be built at that site in 2023.
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