Clean energy with a bitter pill

In August, Gov. Mike Easley signed into law a measure that promotes renewable energy and energy efficiency, but could also encourage new coal and nuclear plants. Environment North Carolina protested provisions in the bill that allow utilities to pass on to ratepayers the financing costs of building new power plants, and fought successfully for key improvements to the bill in the House.

“The bill offers an attractive incentive for utilities to pursue dirty power,” said Elizabeth Ouzts of Environment North Carolina, “but there is a silver lining.”

The bill ensures that 7.5 percent of the state’s energy will come from clean sources by 2021, and requires regulators to evaluate renewable sources and energy conservation measures before permitting new coal or nuclear plants.