Duke Energy's Long-Range Plan Proposes New Gas Plants and Extended Coal Operations Amid Data Center Demand
Duke Energy has released its latest long-range energy plan, which includes proposals for two additional gas plants and the extension of costly coal plant operations. These plans are reportedly based on speculative data center developments, according to documents released by the utility. The Sierra Club, represented by Senior Campaign Organizer Paul Black, has voiced strong opposition, highlighting concerns that residential and small business customers will bear the financial burden of these infrastructure projects. Duke Energy indicates a demand of 8,000 megawatts (MW) from 43 large load customers in 'advanced development' and an additional 6,000 MW in its 'development pipeline,' though many of these lack signed contracts. This comes as energy demand from residential growth has decreased from 1.9 percent to 1.3 percent, and retail demand has fallen from 1.8 percent to 1.2 percent. 
