Duke Energy

As Duke Energy prepares to shut down and demolish its coal-fired Allen plant west of Charlotte, it's planning a new use for the site — huge batteries to store electricity generated elsewhere.

Duke Energy is still waiting on the state to sign off on its plan to replace two coal boilers at the Marshall plant with two new natural gas generators. The N.C. Division of Air Quality is accepting comments on a draft permit for the project.

State regulators accepted Duke Energy’s plan to reduce carbon pollution and meet growing energy demand. But a controversial decision to approve Duke’s request to delay compliance with a key carbon pollution target has drawn criticism from environmental groups.

State regulators heard recommendations from environmental, consumer and business advocates about Duke Energy’s latest plan to meet state energy needs and lower emissions.

North Carolina’s utility consumer advocate, the Public Staff, largely confirmed Duke Energy's own forecast, but told state regulators on Monday that Duke should meet more aggressive carbon reduction goals through renewables, such as solar and battery infrastructure.

State regulators hosted two hearings this week for a proposed natural gas power plant to eventually replace the Marshall Steam Station at Lake Norman. The plant drew support from some residents, but others would like to pump the brakes on new fracked gas infrastructure.

An initiative tasked with improving habitat for fish and wildlife along the Catawba-Wateree River and its lakes is accepting applications for projects.

Duke Energy's carbon plan is meant to provide a roadmap to achieving 70% emissions reductions in the state by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2050. But the latest plan pushes for a five-year extension on the 2030 deadline.

The generators are part of Duke Energy’s plan to meet state energy needs and emission goals.

The utility's Customer Assistance Program will give eligible families a $42 monthly credit for a year. It will also refer customers to energy efficiency programs to reduce energy usage and monthly costs.