Climate Change / Global Warming & Investing Implications

[sarals]

maybe you should re-read your own post:

Coal power becomes Texas debate topic

By EILEEN O'GRADY
Reuters News Service

Texans may consume more electricity than other Americans, but they're suddenly debating the wisdom of doubling the number of coal-fired power plants in the state — plants critics say will worsen air quality and increase health risks.

The threat of more smog-forming emissions from 12,000 new megawatts of coal-fired generation on the books for Texas has sparked a robust debate involving citizens, business groups and big-city mayors. Even the prospect of new jobs, additional tax revenue and cheaper electricity has not quelled anxiety about increased pollution.

After a decade of building natural-gas-fired plants that drew little opposition on environmental grounds, companies are rushing to permit more than 120 new coal-fired plants across the U.S. because coal is cheaper to burn than gas.

Some of the most vocal opposition to the Texas coal rush has been in McLennan County. Companies want to build four new coal generators there.

The concentration of plants in one area of the state has raised concern among elected officials who normally support new investment, said Jim Vaughan, president of the Waco Chamber of Commerce.

Vaughan said his members worry rising power prices will hurt economic growth, but they also fear more coal plants will boost mercury levels in lakes and add to global warming.

Environmentalists are heartened by the chorus of concern. "When you hear the chamber of commerce president talk about global warming, it's clear the tipping point has been reached," said Tom Smith, Texas director of Public Citizen.
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/business/4205973.html


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