Environmentalists challenge power plant permits

By: The Associated Press | WSLS-TV 10
Published: July 25, 2008

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RICHMOND, Va. - Environmentalists are challenging the state's approval of a $1.8 billion coal-fired power plant in southwest Virginia.

Four organizations filed papers Friday appealing a state board's approval of two permits for the Dominion Virginia Power plant in Wise County. The Southern Environmental Law Center filed the notices of appeal in Richmond Circuit Court.

Opponents of the plant also are appealing the State Corporation Commission's approval of the plant to the Virginia Supreme Court. They claim the law authorizing the project is unconstitutional because it requires the plant to use Virginia coal.

Proponents of the project say it would create jobs in the economically depressed region and a new market for Virginia coal. Environmentalists have raised health and safety concerns.