Daniels Applauds Approval Of New Coal Power Plant

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(EDWARDSPORT) - Governor Daniels is applauding the approval of a coal-gasification plant in Edwardsport as a big win for both business and the environment.

The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission has given Duke Energy the go-ahead to build the Southwest Indiana plant, and raise rates about one-sixth to pay for it.

Duke still needs approval from state environmental officials before construction can begin. The plant will turn Indiana coal into natural gas.

Environmental groups have been split on the plant, with opponents charging the technology is unproven and will drastically increase carbon dioxide emissions.

Daniels sides with supporters who say the plant will help the environment by exchanging pollution-heavy coal power for cleaner-burning gas.

And Daniels says the plant is a double victory for Hoosier business. He says the boost in Indiana's generating capacity will make the state more attractive to business, while Indiana coal mines will gain an immediate boost.

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