U.S. Energy Secretary Highlights Coal’s Role During Roxboro Plant Visit
In a recent visit to Duke Energy’s Roxboro coal facility, U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Chris Wright underscored the enduring significance of coal as an energy source. The visit coincides with the Environmental Protection Agency’s recent decision to ease regulations on greenhouse gas emissions from power plants across the United States.
This year, Duke Energy received approximately $62 million from the Energy Department to support maintenance at two of its coal plants. These federal funds are expected to reduce maintenance costs for North Carolina ratepayers. Despite this investment, Duke Energy remains committed to phasing out coal power in North Carolina by 2040.
Standing in front of the Roxboro Station in Person County, which Duke Energy plans to transition entirely to natural gas by 2034, Wright emphasized coal’s pivotal role in global energy production. While North Carolina predominantly relies on natural gas and nuclear energy, Wright highlighted coal’s historical presence in the energy sector.
“By far and away, the largest source of electricity is coal. It has been for 126 years in a row. It will be on the day when we all die,” stated Wright.
