PSC hears about coal plant today

PSC hears about coal plant today

The Florida Public Service Commission today hears testimony in Tallahassee on the need for the proposed coal-fired power plant in Taylor County.

Tallahassee is a partner in the proposed 800-megawatt plant near Perry. Environmentalists say the plant would cause air pollution and contribute to global climate change.

PSC officials have said the hearing won’t deal with environmental issues and that they’ll be considered later by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. The hearing’s purpose, they said, is to determine whether the plant will provide needed power and will be cost-effective.

Opponents have told the PSC that the utilities haven’t adequately studied clean energy alternatives or the cost that future pollution regulations could place on customers. An attorney for the utilities said conservation alternatives and regulatory costs have been thoroughly studied.

The partnership also includes the Florida Municipal Power Agency, the Reedy Creek Improvement District near Orlando and JEA, formerly the Jacksonville Electric Authority. The PSC isn’t expected to make a decision until February, after a staff recommendation is issued.

The hearing begins at 9:30 a.m. in room 148 of the Betty Easely Conference Center, 4075 Esplanade Way.

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