Say ‘no’ to coal

Proposed coal plant will cause more environmental harm than good

The University community has the opportunity to be a modern-day Erin Brockovich.

Power4Georgians, a member of the state’s energy cooperative, has proposed a coal power plant to add to the state’s 12 existing coal plants and nuclear plants.

The plant is proposed for construction in rural Washington County, which has one of the highest poverty rates in the state. Power4Georgians is telling locals the plant will bring new jobs and cheaper power rates.

The Red & Black Editorial Board, however, questions how great these benefits could be.

This coal plant will reap serious environmental havoc on not just Washington County, but the entire state in the form of mercury deposition and CO2 emissions.

Excess mercury can lead to vision loss and lack of coordination, among other problems that magnify with prolonged exposure.

The Power4Georgians spokesman said the state government is working to reduce the mercury levels in Georgia. But the removal process is statewide, while the mercury deposits would be concentrated in Washington County. And why would we knowingly magnify a harful chemical we’re paying big bucks to eliminate?

Furthermore, the carbon emissions – equal to one million extra cars on the road – is daunting. Earlier this year, two companies comprising a half-stake in the project – Jackson and GreyStone Power – pulled out due to a concern about excess emissions.

These corporations saw the Obama-favored Cap and Trade, a policy that would limit carbon emissions with steep fines, and feared the long-term costs of non-progressive energy.

Finally, we are doubtful that the people of Washington County – who will be impacted the most – will see any of the promised benefits.

We believe Power4Georgians is trying to pull the wool over the eyes of impoverished people who lack the resources to resist. We can’t let that happen.

You have 14 days left to voice your opinion to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Take action now.

- Caitlin Byrnes for the editorial board