City Utilities says that beginning October 15 it will discontinue the use of coal at James River Power Station near Lake Springfield and move to natural gas.
In a news release, CU said that recently announced environmental regulations are affecting how many electric utilities operate on coal. The decision will allow time for additional research to determine the full impact of the new regulations on coal operations at the plant, the utility said.
CU noted that both generating units at the John Twitty Energy Center will continue using coal and are in compliance with the regulations with minimal modifications required.
General Manager and CEO Scott Miller said that with current natural gas prices, the change will not impact what customers are paying for energy today.
“Since the late 1950’s, James River Power Station has been a critical component in providing low cost, reliable electricity for our community,” said Miller. “The plant is unique in the fact it has always had the capability to generate electricity using natural gas or coal. Because of this design, the station will remain operational using natural gas as the fuel source.”