DURHAM, N.C. (Nov. 26, 2024) – Southern Coalition for Social Justice (SCSJ) released the following statement alongside its public comments to the NCDEQ, Division of Air Quality on Duke Energy’s air permit modification request for the Roxboro Steam Electric Plant:
“Southern Coalition for Social Justice stands with our allies in condemning Duke Energy’s ill-conceived proposal to add to the emissions from the Roxboro coal plant with air pollution from new methane gas turbines. This plan directly endangers low-income communities of color who already bear the brunt of pollution and its devastating health impacts. Duke’s move to double down on fossil fuels ignores the urgent need for cleaner, more sustainable energy solutions and puts corporate profits from a guaranteed return on infrastructure investments ahead of community well-being. It’s unacceptable that residents lack access to transparent air quality data while being asked to trust assurances that the air is safe.
We demand the NC Division of Air Quality reject the application for this harmful project and ensure robust permitting requirements that prioritizes justice, public health, and a sustainable planet, and includes binding retirement dates for the coal-fired units to guarantee a reduction in overall harmful emissions from Duke’s facilities. It’s time for energy policies that protect our most vulnerable, not make them collateral damage in a corporate gamble.”
Read the full comment letter here.
SCSJ submitted the comments with Katie Moore, Appalachian Voices, 350 Triangle, Blue Ridge Environmental Defense League, Clean Water for North Carolina, Down Home North Carolina, and the North Carolina Environmental Justice Network.
###
Southern Coalition for Social Justice, founded in 2007, partners with communities of color and economically disadvantaged communities in the South to defend and advance their political, social, and economic rights through the combination of legal advocacy, research, organizing, and communications. Learn more at southerncoalition.org and follow our work on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Felecia Phillips Ollie DD (h.c.) is the inspiring leader and founder of The Equality Network LLC (TEN). With a background in coaching, travel, and a career in news, Felecia brings a unique perspective to promoting diversity and inclusion. Holding a Bachelor’s Degree in English/Communications, she is passionate about creating a more inclusive future. From graduating from Mississippi Valley State University to leading initiatives like the Washington State Department of Ecology’s Equal Employment Opportunity Program, Felecia is dedicated to making a positive impact. Join her journey on our blog as she shares insights and leads the charge for equity through The Equality Network.
