Duke Energy's Gas Plant Plans Spark Outrage Over Cost and Environmental Concerns

Duke Energy's plans to build two large methane gas plants, an 'enhanced' liquefied natural gas (ELNG) facility, a pipeline, and transmission lines on the Yadkin River in Davie and Davidson Counties, North Carolina, have raised concerns among local residents and environmental groups.

The proposed facilities would be built on over 1,600 acres of land owned by Duke Energy, with each plant capable of producing 1,365 megawatts of electricity. The ELNG facility would liquefy and vaporize gas simultaneously, a process that consumes significant amounts of energy.

According to the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy (SACE), Duke Energy's plans are driven by its desire to earn a profit from owning and operating the facilities, rather than simply selling electricity. The group argues that the plants would not be needed if Duke Energy were to invest in clean energy resources such as solar and storage.

The costs of the facilities would be passed on to ratepayers, with an estimated $17.5 billion added to Duke's allowed recovery from customers over the next few years. The project has sparked opposition from local residents and environmental groups, who are concerned about the impact on the environment and public health.