Davie-Davidson Energy Complex Sparks Debate Over Environmental Concerns
A proposed multi-billion-dollar energy project in western Davidson County is sparking debate between supporters and opponents.
Duke Energy's Davie-Davidson Energy Complex, which would place two natural gas-fired power plants in Davie County and the largest liquefied natural gas storage facility Duke Energy has ever built in Davidson County, was presented to local residents at a community meeting.
The project would span property owned by Duke Energy on opposite sides of the Yadkin River. The company owns 1,615 acres in Davidson County off Giles Road and 1,665 acres in Davie County along U.S. 801 South.
The power plants would generate about 2,720 megawatts of electricity, enough to power more than 2 million homes. The first power plant and the LNG facility are projected to begin operating in early 2032, followed by the second power plant in early 2033, pending approval from the N.C. Utilities Commission and environmental permitting agencies.
Despite opposition from some residents, Duke Energy spokesman Bill Norton said public participation at the open houses has exceeded expectations.