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Western Greenbrier Co-Generation: The Battle for Clean Air in West Virginia Continues
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by Jim Kotcon | 2007

WV-DEP erred in approving a permit authorizing excessive pollution levels for the Western Greenbrier Co-Generation Power Plant. So the Sierra Club has appealed that Air Pollution Permit

Sierra Club and other plaintiffs continue our appeal of the air pollution permit for the Western Greenbrier Co-Generation facility in Rainelle, Greenbrier County. The technical evidence submitted by the Club, as well as expert witness testimony organized through the Appalachian Center for the Economy and the Environment, clearly demonstrates that WV-DEP erred in approving a permit authorizing excessive pollution levels.

A court hearing was held June 8, but a ruling has not been issued as of press time.

In addition, a Final Environmental Impact Statement from the US Dept. of Energy is expected in mid-July, however, it is not clear whether the developers can address the need for adequate cooling water, or whether the fuel supply is sufficient. Even if these issues are resolved, the cost of the facility continues to sky-rocket.

Powerful forces are pushing this coal-fired facility, but the need for cleaner air, and the need to reduce greenhouse gases may yet prevent this plant from operating.