Attorneys for a coalition of environmental groups said Tuesday a new federal ruling will help in their fight to stop construction of a coal-fired power generator in western North Carolina.
"The weight against building new coal plants is growing," said John Runkle, an environmental attorney representing one of the groups. "This certainly will help us."
Runkle referred to a ruling last week by an Environmental Protection Agency appeals panel that could place the fate of new coal-burning power plants in limbo until the Obama administration takes office in January.
The EPA appeals panel rejected a federal permit for an Utah coal plant because the agency's regional office in Denver didn't require controls on carbon dioxide. The greenhouse gas is blamed in part for global warming.
The matter was kicked back to the Denver office, which must explain why it failed to order limits on carbon dioxide. The panel said the issue was one of "national scope that has implications far beyond this individual permitting process."
Environmentalists and lawyers representing industry groups said the ruling puts in question permits - some being considered, others approved but under appeal - of perhaps as many as 100 coal plants.
In North Carolina, environmentalists quickly jumped on the ruling, saying it reflected their position in a long-running legal fight to stop Duke Energy from building a $2.4 billion, 800-megawatt unit at its Cliffside Steam Station, about 50 miles west of Charlotte.
The North Carolina Division of Air Quality in January approved a permit allowing Duke to build the generator, but environmentalists appealed the decision. The case is now in pending the North Carolina Office of Administrative Hearings. A similar lawsuit to stop the coal plant is pending in federal district court in Asheville, N.C.
Using the EPA appeals court decision, attorneys in the state lawsuit Friday filed a new motion, saying the ruling "provides important authority bearing on a central issue in this case." That issue: Whether carbon dioxide is a "pollutant subject to regulation under the Clean Air Act."
Administrative Law Judge Randall May heard testimony Monday in the case.
Environmentalists said Duke violated the Clean Air Act by not using the best available technology to capture carbon dioxide, mercury and other hazardous pollutants that will be discharged from the generator. The group wants construction stopped until the case is resolved.
The judge probably won't make a decision until early next year, said John Suttles, an attorney for the Southern Environmental Law Center.
May could revoke the permit. If that happens, Duke could appeal his decision. But if the permit is revoked, that could set off months of new hearings and other legal challenges.
For years, environmentalists have opposed Cliffside, saying pollution from the coal-burning unit would hurt air quality and wildlife in the region, especially in the mountains in the western part of the state. But the battle has intensified since the permit was issued.
Duke spokeswoman Marilyn Lineberger said the EPA appeals panel ruling has no impact on Cliffside, which has five coal-burning units.
"Clearly Cliffside is a different project," she said.
She said that Duke has a carbon dioxide control plan in place. Once the new generator - known as Unit 6 - goes on line in 2012, the company will shutter four units at the Cliffside Steam Station. As part of the plan, Duke also will shut down an additional 800 megawatts between 2012 and 2018. That will make the new Cliffside unit carbon neutral, she said.
But the new unit won't be equipped with special technology to capture carbon dioxide.
"There's really not any carbon capture and storage technology available that has proven successful for that large of a baseload unit," she said.
Nonsense, said Suttles.
He said the company would have had to close down those "dirty old plants" or spend substantial money to renovate them because they were near the end of their lifespan.
"It's a little disingenuous for them to say we're controlling CO2 emissions at the new plant by closing down all these old plants.... The fact is they are doing absolutely nothing to control or limit CO2 emissions from this new plant. You have to wonder when they talk this talk about addressing CO2, why they don't actually walk the walk and put it into practice," he said.
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Focal Point: Power Shift
Hosted by WRAL News' Bill Leslie, "Focal Point: Power Shift" looks at the shift in public and political opinion on the issue of offshore drilling and examine the quiet shift to alternative fuels and energy. (Original air date: Dec. 4, 2008)
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Greenhouse gas emissions increase in US
The amount of U.S. greenhouse gases flowing into the atmosphere, mainly carbon dioxide from burning fossil fuels, increased last year by 1.4 percent after a decline in 2006, the Energy Department reported Wednesday.
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Recycle and reuse
The shelves at Wilmington's former downtown Belk's department store these days aren't filled with the latest fashions but with the literary treasures that fill the main library.
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Prospect of uranium mining concerns Virginia Beach
The resort city of Virginia Beach is taking a stand against uranium mining, fearful it could threaten its water supply near the North Carolina border.
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Real vs. fake: How 'green' is your tree?
Chopping down a tree might not seem Earth-friendly, but Christmas tree growers say their product is the green option. Not everyone agrees.
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UN: Financial crisis delaying green projects
The global financial crisis already has delayed some green energy projects, stoking fears that a shortage of investment money will lead to cheap and dirty decisions on new power plants, the U.N.'s top climate official said.
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Raleigh growth plan to curb sprawl
The proposals for dealing with Raleigh's growth over the next two decades are the first updates to the city's Comprehensive Plan since 1989.
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Cold weather leads to two dozen sea turtle rescues
Recent cold weather caught sea turtles off-guard before they could reach warmer Gulf Stream waters, and that has led to more than two dozen rescues along the North Carolina coast in the past week.
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Tobacco lawsuit trailblazer still fighting smoking
Mike Moore hasn't been Mississippi's attorney general since 2003, and it's been more than a decade since his David-and-Goliath battle against Big Tobacco.
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Chatham home certified as first water-efficient in U.S.
Government officials and builder Vanguard Homes gave tours Tuesday of a North Carolina house that is the first home in the nation built and certified to be water-efficient under a federal pilot project.
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Man credits hydrogen system with fuel savings
If Fred Tutwiler has his way, Arm & Hammer might be the next Exxon. Using plans he found on the Internet, he built his own hydrogen-based fuel-boosting system for his 1997 Ford Explorer.
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New center at JSU to study natural disasters
Officials at Jackson State University have opened a Department of Homeland Security research facility.
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Legislative panel to study offshore drilling
North Carolina lawmakers will form a committee to study whether drilling for oil and natural gas is feasible off the coast.
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Energy cooperative honors teachers with grant money
Teachers from Harnett, Cumberland, Sampson, Bladen, Johnston, Duplin, Pender, Durham, Wake, Alamance, Orange, Person, Chatham, Lee, Moore, New Hanover, Beaufort, Wayne, Pitt, Franklin, Granville, Nash and Vance counties will share more than $180,000 in grant money.
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Going green to save green
Turning on a light, hot water, computer or TV, burns electricity and cash.
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Two free shredding events planned
Triangle residents looking to safely recycle personal documents and electronic equipment have two opportunities to do so for free this week.
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Drought-related disaster declared in 59 counties
Crop losses caused by drought and extreme heat led the U.S. Department of Agriculture to declare 59 North Carolina counties as disaster areas.
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Sewer workers know the dirt on what goes down the drain
About 43 million gallons of wastewater run beneath the streets of Raleigh every day. When something blocks a sewer main, the results can be nasty and expensive.
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Shoppers take advantage of tax-free 'Energy Star' weekend
The tax-free weekend runs through Sunday and covers items like washers, freezers, refrigerators and other appliances that carry the “Energy Star” label.
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Gas-tax code pinches nonprofits' budgets
Gas prices have gone down from record highs – but not before delivering a blow to volunteer and charity groups, which federal law gives a smaller reimbursement for gas mileage than businesses.
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Program encourages homebuilders, buyers to go 'green'
A new program is aiming to make it easier for people to build and buy homes that are environmentally friendly.
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Tax holiday set for energy-saving appliances
The tax-free weekend runs Friday through Sunday and covers items like washers, freezers, refrigerators and other appliances that carry the "Energy Star" label.
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State approves Progress Energy transmission line
The state Utilities Commission on Friday approved a 64-mile route through four counties for a Progress Energy power transmission line.
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Save money buying, repairing appliances
We want to get broken appliances, from refrigerators to stoves, working again right away. But when getting a good repair is difficult, the choices facing buyers can be overwhelming.
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Raleigh gets energy-saving street lights
When does it take a mayor and a CEO to change a light bulb? When the change is an energy-efficient first for Raleigh.
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Duke's 'Smart Home' wins green award
The Duke Smart Home Program, a high-tech, 10-student residence for green living and learning, has been selected as the Green Nonprofit Program of the Year by the Triangle Business Journal.
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Hoke sheriff sponsors gas discount
Hoke County Sheriff Hubert Peterkin plans to give hundreds of area drivers a break on filling up their gas tanks on Friday.
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State Fair goes green
WRAL reporter Brian Shrader found out how the State Fair is going green this year.
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Color MySpace green – Networking site eyes $1B in revenue
What economic downturn? MySpace won’t get specific on revenues but say growth in dollars and traffic continues.
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Six gas stations cited for price gouging
A station in Fayetteville and five in western North Carolina will repay customers who bought high-priced gas in mid-September, Attorney General Roy Cooper said Monday.
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Gas prices dip below $3 nationally
On Sunday, the average price for a gallon of regular gas was $2.95 – a significant drop from last month’s average of $3.80 per gallon.
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Renting a hybrid might not save green
High rates and little availability might make renting a hybrid hard, despite the cars' growing popularity among travelers.
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Progress Energy to offer free fluorescent light bulbs at fair
Progress Energy Carolinas is giving away 11,000 compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) to North Carolina State Fair attendees this year.
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Take a peek at the State Fair's new 'green' attractions
WRAL’s Scott Mason takes a look at some new sights this year at the North Carolina State Fair.
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Developer lures homebuyers with electric cars
The developer of The Villages of Apex is offering everyone who buys a home in the second phase of the subdivision an electric car as part of the purchase.
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Fair pushes 'green' initiatives
A whole exhibit, Green NC, will highlight steps that fair-goers can take to preserve the environment -- including eating locally-grown foods, recycling and conserving water.
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Roadside Environmental Unit prepares for State Fair
The N.C. Department of Transportation Roadside Environmental Unit will host a booth at the State Fair.
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Commuter rail system gets price tag
Could a 141-mile commuter rail line be in North Carolina's future? Proponents say it is a project headed on the right track but it won't be cheap.
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N.C. gas prices sit high above national average
North Carolina's average gas prices are the fourth-highest in the country, more than three weeks since hurricanes Gustav and Ike damaged Gulf Coast oil facilities.
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Easley wants aid for drought-hit farmers
North Carolina Gov. Mike Easley wants help from the federal government for farmers who have suffered crop losses due to the drought that began last year.
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Regional transit great for some, no help for others
High gas prices and congested roads are prompting thousands of people to use mass transportation, but others say it's inconvenient and too time-consuming.
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Easley: Gas shortage easing
The pipelines that supply gas to the Southeast have been running at capacity since Tuesday, meaning full capacity will return to North Carolina next week, Gov. Mike Easley said.
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SAS going ‘green’ with new building, related projects at headquarters in Cary
Construction begins on new 260,000 square foot office structure that integrates energy-saving technology. Solar farm expected to be finished by year’s end.
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Gas terminals work furiously to pump up local supplies
Many retailers have run out of gas across the Southeast, and drivers have waited in line up for hours to fill up at stations that still have gas.
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Biotech center awards research grants topping $700,000
Wake Forest, East Carolina, A&T, UNC-Wilmington researchers receive grants up to $75,000.
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AAA: Gasoline relief on the way
There should soon be a "replenishing" level of gasoline in some areas of the state hit hard by gas shortages, AAA Carolinas said Friday.
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Chapel Hill 'green' community to open this weekend
The Briar Chapel community in Chatham County is holding a grand opening celebration this weekend.
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Durham goats landscape yards
A new landscaping team in Durham can double as a petting zoo. Alix Bowman owns The Goat Patrol, whose team of 14 goats travels to a home and eats unwanted weeds and brush.
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Majority of N.C. wants oil drilling, poll finds
The Elon University Poll also found that N.C. residents are gloomy about the economy, support universal health care and don't want employed illegal immigrants to remain in the country.
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Subpoenas keep coming in gasoline-price investigation
The state Monday subpoenaed records from the owners of three gas stations as part of Attorney General Roy Cooper’s probe of possible price-gouging before Hurricane Ike hit Texas.
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Asthma inhalers going green
A new propellant chemical makes a common treatment more environmentally friendly.
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Natural gas companies propose rate reductions
North Carolina's two largest natural gas companies are proposing significant rate reductions for the fall.
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N.C. has on-shore oil drilling options
Geologists aren't sure whether drilling for oil off the state's coast would produce oil, but they know there's some crude buried under Lee County.
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More gas stations subpoenaed in price-gouging probe
The state Attorney General's office demanded records from 10 stations, including one in Fayetteville, as investigators look into possible price-gouging last week in advance of Hurricane Ike.
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Attorney general to probe gas prices; N.C. average tops $4
The average gasoline price in North Carolina went above $4 a gallon Monday, according to industry reports, driven by concerns that Hurricane Ike's damage to oil facilities will cause shortages.
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McCrory, Perdue bicker over drilling, vouchers
Gubernatorial candidates Beverly Perdue and Pat McCrory attacked each other's positions on a range of issues during a debate sponsored by WRAL.
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‘Green Recovery’ plan could produce 62,000 jobs in N.C., study says
Study calls for $100B program across U.S. over two years. Proposal receives backing from several N.C. environmental groups. However, energy management company exec acknowledges programs will increase energy costs in ‘short term.’
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'Green' building principles could pay off for convention center
The convention center that opens Friday in downtown Raleigh is a local landmark in energy efficiency.
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The complex science of buying light bulbs, at least in North Carolina
How many North Carolinians does it take to buy a light bulb? Millions, thanks to centrally-planned energy efficiency programs.
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Final touches put on Raleigh’s new 'green-friendly' convention center
After six years of planning and three years of construction, the Raleigh Convention Center will open Sept. 5 amid the concerts, parades and crowds of the Raleigh Wide Open weekend festival.
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CED picks new Raleigh center as site for Biotech 2009 conference
Quintiles founder, BIO CEO are among scheduled speakers for event, which is set for Feb. 16-17.
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N.C. delegates tour Denver by light rail
The majority of North Carolina delegates will glide home for the night the way they wish they could in the Triangle – by light rail.
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N.C. delegates debate offshore drilling
Democrats are committed to making their week in Denver the greenest convention ever by pushing delegates to recycle and by incorporating alternative sources of energy into events.
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Fuel grows in trees? NSCU to explore genetically enhanced trees for ethanol
UniversityTech: Three-year grant worth close to $1 million will fund research into wood as potential alternative feedstock.
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Bicycling becoming more convenient
High gas prices have led to a bicycle boom and a push toward making biking more convenient. Things you never thought you could do on a bike are becoming possible.
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Pittsboro man sells sustainability
Lyle Estill created the Piedmont Biofuels Project, which includes the largest biodiesel co-op in the country.
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N.C. apple growers say drought might shrink fruit
The lack of rain has resulted in smaller apple sizes in the more than 6,000 acres of orchards in Henderson County, a primary apple producing area.
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Fake grass causing neighborhood flap
Les Bernstein may have the greenest yard in Raleigh's Falls River neighborhood, but his water-saving artificial grass is stirring up trouble between him and his homeowners association.
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Recycling goes uncollected on hot days
Green recycling bins in some Raleigh neighborhoods have been sitting by the curb for one to two days after the scheduled collection days in recent weeks.
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Gas pumps protect credit data with new device
The BP service station, at 531 Barber Mill Road and N.C. Highway 42, began using the Secure PumpPay system on its eight pumps in April, according to John Strickland, president of Wayne Oil and owner of the Clayton BP.
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Chinese herbal researcher named to top post at UNCG Kannapolis center
Herbal and traditional Chinese medicines will play a key role in the research conducted by the Center for Research Excellence in Bioactive Food Components at the N.C. Research Campus.
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For the future of biodiesel, Chevron and Shell might be on the right track
A red flag for ethanol? Furanics, while not actually identical to biodiesel, might as well be – they burn quite well in diesel engines.
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Durham County commissioners vote against bio-lab
The Durham County Board of Commissioners voted 4-1 Monday evening against a proposed federal research lab in Butner.
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Farm, Harnett County at odds over sewer line
Environmental concerns have snagged plans for new sewer service to Fort Bragg and southern Harnett County.
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N.C. offers to sell Butner sites for proposed bio-lab for $1
Internal Department of Homeland Security document shows North Carolina ranks first among finalists under consideration for $451 million National Bio- and Agro-Defense Facility.
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Butner pulls support for bio-lab
The Town Council voted unanimously Thursday to withdraw its support for a proposed federal research lab, which has become the target of growing opposition from residents and neighboring communities.
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Duke Energy to turn Durham landfill gas into power
Utility signs 20-year contract with Methane Power. Methane to produce electricity equivalent to that needed for 1,600 residential users, company says.
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Get the best mower for your green
Handling and evenly cut grass are important factors to consider when buying a lawn mower.
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Bio-lab faces growing opposition; Homeland Security says message 'received'
Growing opposition to a proposed bio-defense lab in Granville County may end its chances of ending up there. 'Your message has been received and the message has been that you don't support us coming here,' federal spokesperson says.
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More than 500,000 fish die in kill in Neuse River
State officials say more than 500,000 fish died in the Neuse River near New Bern because of a lack oxygen likely caused by hot, still conditions.
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Less red means more green for Raleigh drivers
City crews are adjusting the timing on traffic lights along some major thoroughfares to help traffic move more smoothly, which saves gas and cuts emissions.
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Sampson Co. takes steps toward new power plant
Sampson County Commissioners voted Monday to rezone a property that could yield new industrial jobs for the county.
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Falls Lake level up, water demand down
Falls Lake is almost 2½ feet higher than it was a year ago, while demand across the municipal water system has dropped from last year, officials said Tuesday.
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N.C. air quality improves
The number and intensity of high ozone days caused by heat and pollution has steadily declined over the past decade, state scientists said Tuesday.
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Masonboro Island land designated for preservation
The state has purchased 23.3 acres on Masonboro Island for preservation, paying private land owners almost $90,000.
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Easley signs drought response bill
Although state officials now have more power to respond to droughts, the head of Raleigh's water system says the new law doesn't go far enough.
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Hurricanes feed environmental fears about hog lagoons
North Carolina has more than 3,000 hog lagoons. Opponents say the lagoons foul up the air and water supply. In protest, they started a 51-hour vigil Tuesday to raise awareness about what they say is an environmental disaster waiting to happen.
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New EPA air-quality rules spell changes for N.C.
New ozone standards could have state regulators issuing more air-quality warnings. But that doesn't necessarily mean pollutions gotten worse, state officials say.
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Opponents: Duke Energy's 'Save-a-Watt' program no bright idea
Energy companies earn less money when customers are energy-efficient. To make up for the lost revenue, Duke Energy is proposing charging its 1.8 million customers a 98-cent monthly fee.
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UPS saving money, fuel just by turning right
Last year, the delivery company saved 3 million gallons of gas nationwide and shaved 30 million miles off its delivery routes by reconfiguring its routes to turn right as often as possible.
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Wildfire hot spots continue
Despite receiving four days of rain this week, isolated hot spots and heat sources continue to exist at the site of a large wildfire that consumed more than 40,000 acres, state forestry officials said Saturday.
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Gas prices averaging under $4 a gallon
Statewide, the cost of gas has fallen even lower, under $3.95 a gallon. Oil and gas prices are both down from all-time highs earlier this month.
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Fayetteville building 'green' customer service center
The Fayetteville Public Works Commission broke ground Wednesday for a new, environmentally-friendly customer service center on Old Wilmington Road.
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Family seeks county's OK to make their own ethanol
Rising prices at the gas pump are forcing people to find alternative ways to fill up their fuel tanks. A Granville County man says his solution is simple: when you can't afford to buy fuel, make it yourself.
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Green party candidate files petition in Durham
Cynthia McKinney, the Green Party nominee for president brought her campaign to Durham Tuesday.
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Triangle nonprofit gets old bikes rolling again
High gas prices are fueling interest in a unique Triangle bicycle program. ReCYCLEry takes old bikes and makes them new again.
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Wildfire burns on, despite storm, flooded canals
Firefighters have tapped into new water sources to put out a wildfire in eastern North Carolina, which Tropical Storm Cristobal failed to dampen.
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Tropical storm's winds could hinder wildfire efforts
Officials fighting a wildfire that has burned thousands of acres in eastern North Carolina had hoped Tropical Storm Cristobal would bring heavy rain before moving away from shore.
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Tropical Storm Dolly forms in western Caribbean
Tropical Storm Dolly has formed in the western Caribbean sea.
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Storm's slow progress soaks N.C. coast
Tropical Storm Christobal is expected to continue a slow drift to the north and east, Chief Meteorologist Greg Fishel said. The Triangle could see widely scattered showers Sunday afternoon and evening.
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Open burning ban lifted
The N.C. Division of Forest Resources is lifting its ban on open burning in several counties in response to recent rain in the state.The bans are canceled as of noon Saturday.
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Tropical Storm warnings lifted
Tropical Storm Cristobal headed for the open Atlantic late Sunday as forecasters discontinued tropical storm warnings along North Carolina.
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Tropical storm threatens N.C. coast
Before dark clouds and rolled in Saturday, beach-goers enjoyed high surf and bits of sunshine along the North Carolina coast, as the first named tropical storm to threaten the U.S. moved north from South Carolina.
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Push to preserve water resources could hurt development
The state has given Raleigh four months to change the zoning of the watershed near the old Burlington Mills plant off Capital Boulevard to protect the water supply, which some say could make future property additions more difficult.
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Coastal N.C. under tropical storm warning
The first bands from a tropical depression rolled over central North Carolina Friday evening, and more rain is expected on Saturday and Sunday.
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Tropical disturbance to bring weekend rain
The system will skirt the coast on Saturday and Sunday causing showers and some thunderstorms in the state. The most widespread chance of rain will be closer to the coast and east of Interstate 95.
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Hazardous gas leak cleared in Kenly
A faulty valve on a tanker truck hauling a hazardous gas was repaired Wednesday afternoon. The valve caused a leak that led to the evacuation of several homes and businesses in Kenly.
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Intake plant wouldn't help Raleigh in dry conditions
It could be another water source for Raleigh or its surrounding communities, but city officials say it wouldn't help in dry conditions.
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Scrap-metal recycling grows as economy shrinks
Bicycles, pots and even toaster ovens can be sources of income in a faltering economy, patrons of scrap-metal recycling plants have discovered.
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N.C. drivers going thousands of fewer miles
The number of miles driven by North Carolinians dropped by several hundred thousand in March and April, compared to the same month a year before.
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Rented bees are all the buzz on produce farms
Many farmers are forced to buy or rent bees for their land. Bee experts say disease and predators are partly to blame for the bee shortage.
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Businesses give away gas cards
Even a local church is getting involved. Southbridge Fellowship recently gave away $4,000 worth of free gas.
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Fuel for biofuels? Try carbon dioxide
VentureBeat: SequesCO combines CO2 sequestration with biofuel production.
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Republican state senators call for domestic drilling
The Republican Senate Caucus's plan includes exploration and drilling for oil and natural gas 45 to 100 miles off the North Carolina coast.
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Firefighters make 'some progress' in wildfire battle
The wildfire has burned 41,534 acres in and around the Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge. Peat soil continues to burn down to an average depth of three feet, officials said.
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State urges people to bag fireworks
Wildfire observers want North Carolina residents to ditch their personal fireworks this year in favor of public Fourth of July displays. Read the story for area celebration ideas!
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Gas prices drive Triangle Transit ridership to new high
The June passenger count was an all-time record of 97,712 and was up more than 30 percent from a year ago.
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Higher gas prices fuel interest in motorcycle riding
As fuel prices keep climbing, people are steering towards something smaller and more open. Motorcycle safety classes are filling up, as folks opt to roll on two wheels – rather than four.
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Questionable trips produced uneven recycling results
Fired Wake County recycling director Craig Wittig said his travel was tied to efforts to improve the local program, but little gains have been made.
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Air quality improves near eastern N.C. wildfire
A shift in the wind and a change in the weather has reduced the smoke filling the air over Currituck, Dare, Hyde and Tyrrell counties.
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Wildfire smoke to clog skies, lungs through holiday weekend
Two wildfires burning in the rural areas of eastern North Carolina are raising air quality warnings for holiday weekend travelers. Some unhealthy air could spread as far as Kill Devil Hills.
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Wildfire creates unhealthy air in 9 eastern counties
Code Red or Purple conditions are forecast for Wednesday in all or part of these counties: Camden, Currituck, Dare, Gates, Hyde, Pasquotank, Perquimans, Tyrrell and Washington counties.
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This dog is so cute; he’ll even buy your gas
The SPCA of Wake County said they are seeing a 14 percent increase in animals being given up. To help more pets get homes, the shelter is offering gas cards to people who adopt.
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Tiered rates in effect for Durham water customers
Starting July 1, Durham water customers who use more water will pay more per unit than those that conserve.
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Chapel Hill Transit awarded for green effects
Chapel Hill's free public transportation system has been honored as an innovative way to increase energy efficiency and to help curb global warming.
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McCrory backs offshore drilling
Republican gubernatorial candidate Pat McCrory said Monday that he would issue an executive order allowing for deep-sea oil exploration and drilling off the North Carolina coast.
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Businesses get $1M for green technologies
Thirteen companies have won inaugural grants of up to $100,000 from the North Carolina Green Business Fund.
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Fewer North Carolinians to travel for Independence Day
AAA officials think the decrease in travelers is due to record-high gas prices – up $1.10 since July 4, 2007.
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Thick atmosphere sparks air-quality warning, maybe storms
High ozone levels are predicted for the Triangle on Friday. The hot, stagnant atmosphere could also create afternoon and evening thunderstorms.
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Boil water advisory lifted for Greenville
Greenville Utilities has lifted a boil-water order for most of its service area, but officials say the cause of the contamination that led to the advisory may never be known.
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Dole now supports lifting ban on offshore drilling
Sen. Elizabeth Dole said North Carolina should have the option of allowing oil exploration off the state's coast, backing away from her long-held support of a federal moratorium on Atlantic drilling.
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Water contamination shuts down Greenville restaurants
Traces of fecal coliform were found in water samples on Wednesday, prompting the closure, utility officials said.
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Make a friend, save on gas with carpool
The national average is about $4.06 for a gallon of regular unleaded gas. With prices this high, more people want to carpool. However, finding someone to drive with is easier said than done.
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SAS adds solar power to local energy
The world’s largest privately held software firm will build a solar power grid covering five acres at its headquarters in Cary.
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N.C. Air Guard C-130s to help fight Calif. wildfires
Two planes from the 145th Airlift Wing are equipped to carry fire retardant chemicals to the fire lines near Sacramento, Calif.
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Watch your mail – Natural gas bill may be going up again
SNC asks for a 15% increase, citing increased costs. Rates went up 16% as of June 1.
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Tomato sales up at state Farmer's Market
Tomatoes grown in North Carolina have been cleared by the Food & Drug Administration as being safe to eat.
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N.C. is drying out again
Summer begins Friday, and it's shaping up to be dry. Drought is once again setting in across North Carolina.
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Smoke from wildfire again clouds coastal skies
The state Division of Air Quality forecast unhealthy conditions for Tyrrell, Dare, Hyde, Pasquotank, Camden and Currituck counties.
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Bush urges Congress to lift offshore drilling ban
With gasoline topping $4 a gallon, drilling for oil off North Carolina's coast is becoming a campaign issue for U.S. Senate and gubernatorial candidates.
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Fewer firefighters work wildfire in eastern N.C.
Firefighters are still working to extinguish a wildfire that's burned more than 41,000 acres in eastern North Carolina, but there are signs that the effort is less intense than it once was.
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Durham tests hybrid buses
The Durham Area Transit Authority plans to buy 20 hybrid buses over the next year. Some of them are being tested on city routes this week.
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Firefighters gain ground in battle with wildfire
Officials said the fire in and around the Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge is now about 60 percent contained. That's up from the 40 percent of the past several days, but officials caution it could burn for weeks without heavy rains.
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Vigil takes aim at hog waste lagoons
North Carolina has more than 3,000 hog lagoons. Opponents say the lagoons foul up the air and water supply. In protest, they started a 51-hour vigil Tuesday to raise awareness about what they say is an environmental disaster waiting to happen.
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More people are pumping without paying
In Raleigh, 58 reports of gas drive-offs were reported this year. In response, a police spokesperson said many gas stations are requiring customers to pay before pumping, but not every station has that technology.
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Gas cards, rebates used to get customers on car lots
Rebates and offers of free or reduced-price gas comes with various restrictions but are luring some customers to car dealerships.
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N.C. wildfire creates visibility, health concerns
Unhealthy smoke from an eastern North Carolina wildfire has become so thick that it is causing visibility problems in the area around the blaze, officials said Sunday.
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2 Falls Lake swimming areas remain closed due to bacteria
Signs and caution tape told people to stay out of the water at the Beaverdam and Holly Point access areas until tests show the water is OK.
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Eastern N.C. under highest air-quality warning
A Code Purple air alert went up as 530 workers used about 100 air and ground machines to fight a stubborn wildfire that started June 1. The alert included Edenton, Elizabeth City, Greenville, Roanoke Rapids, Rocky Mount, Tarboro, Washington and Wilson.
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Fuel prices forcing businesses to change operations
Business owners say they are having to turn away customers because it's no longer profitable for them to do business.
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Smoke from N.C. wildfire sparking health concerns
As the smoky layer from an eastern North Carolina wildfire settles more densely over the Triangle, it is putting sensitive people at higher risk for health problems.
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Wildfire forces evacuations, emergency harvests
Dozens of Hyde County residents have been forced to flee their homes, and farmers are hurriedly harvesting wheat as a wildfire continues to spread.
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Wake Tech goes 'green,' gets award
Wake Technical Community College has received the 2008 Innovation of the Year Award for going “green.”
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Gas hits national average of $4 for first time
Gas prices rose overnight Saturday to top a $4-per-gallon nationwide average for the first time.
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Wildfire smoke, odor reach Triangle
A shift in wind direction brought the smell of an eastern North Carolina wildfire to the skies above Raleigh, Durham and Greensboro, state forest officials said.
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Early season heat wave sets records across NC
Poor air quality will accompany record-breaking heat as temperatures are expected to rise into the 90s for the fifth straight day – and triple digits for the second.
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Eastern N.C. wildfire grows to 20,500 acres
A wildfire that started on a wildlife refuge in rural eastern North Carolina and burned into privately owned rural land doubled in size Thursday.
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Community farms bring local produce to shareholders
Community Supported Agriculture is growing in popularity across the state. Folks support a local farm by paying in advance for weekly drop-offs of produce.
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Record heat continues, but 'cool' is coming
Sweltering temperatures blanketed the state Monday, as temperatures reached into the upper 90s and topped 100 degrees in many places.
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Recreational fishing license sales take dip
Recreational fishing license sales are sinking, down about 40 percent from 2007. The decline affects tackle shops, hotels, marinas and tourism along the North Carolina coast.
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Gas station owners not pumped about higher prices
Paying fees to process credit card purchases means some stations lose money on every gallon they sell.
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State’s car operation taking a hit from rising gas prices
High oil and gas prices are hiking the price of operating the state's vehicle fleet, and that is being passed on to more than 100 state agencies and universities that use its cars.
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Maryland firm building solar power farm near Charlotte raises $131M
VentureBeat: SunEdison also secures $30M in debt to help finance expansion plans
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Durham libraries offer recycling bins
Green bins for the materials are available at North Regional Library, 221 Milton Road, and East Regional Library, 211 Lick Creek Lane.
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Pump prices ease sticker shock for hybrids
A hybrid costs about $3,000 to $6,000 more than a comparable gas-powered vehicle. With gas prices closing in on $4 a gallon, dealers said hybrid buyers can recoup the difference in a few years because of better fuel economy.
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Station's pumps don't like rising gas prices
One area gas station has stopped selling mid-grade and premium fuel because prices have outpaced its pumps.
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Gas prices cut allure of beach weekend
As Memorial Day weekend – and the summer vacation season – got under way Friday, gas prices inching closer to $4 a gallon made trips to North Carolina beaches harder on the pocketbooks of vacationers.
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Municipalities cut back to fuel vehicles
There is talk that gas prices could rise even more by the end of next year, and that's a worrisome prospect if you're a local-government manager who has to keep a fleet on the road.
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Triangle remains 'abnormally dry'
Heavy rains last weekend continued to push North Carolina's drought to the west, according to a report issued Thursday.
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Motorists get free gas
More than 150 motorists camped out overnight to get in line for a free $40 pre-paid gas card. The high gas prices have left some people sacrificing summer fun.
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Building ethical business environment is essential for successful investment
Angel Connection: In an ethical environment, employees and business partners understand that ethical behavior is the means by which business success is achieved.
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CFL: A Bright Idea for Going Green
So you want to go green but aren’t sure how to take that first step without cleaning out your wallet in the process?
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Sustainable Flooring: Bamboo and Cork
Simply put, sustainable flooring is a material that doesn’t deplete natural resources when harvested.
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State lawmaker calls for gas tax holiday
Presidential candidates have debated temporarily suspending the federal gas tax. Now, state lawmakers are looking at a gas tax holiday this summer.
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Ocean Isle named Best Restored Beach
Ocean Isle Beach earned national recognition Monday for improvements made since Hurricane Hugo's devastating blow in 1989.
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Raleigh waits on Army before banning ammo at scrap plants
Three months after a load of unexploded ordnance wound up at a Raleigh scrap-metals plant, city officials continue to study possible limits on what materials such plants can accept.
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Science & Math students win national science competition
Students from the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics won first place for their age group in in one the world's largest K-12 science and technology competitions.
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Raleigh moving forward with recycled water project
A City Council committee has voted to proceed with planned project to build a 17-mile pipeline that would allow some municipal water customers to use treated wastewater for outdoor irrigation.
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Diesel prices fuel restaurant layoffs
A popular seafood restaurant has gone self-serve to cut costs as rising fuel prices continue to eat up its profits.
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Meeker: Raleigh will warn people about PCBs in streams
Mayor Charles Meeker said Wednesday that the city would find a way to warn people about the presence of cancer-causing chemicals in Walnut Creek and Rocky Branch Creek.
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3 arrested in oil spill at Halifax bird sanctuary
Deputies said David Alston, Anthony Daye and Billy Ray Dickens were trying to get scrap metal from oil tankers at a nearby lumber mill when the leak happened.
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Bus ridership grows along with gas prices
Gas prices shot to a new record over $3.73 a gallon Tuesday, and their advance shows little sign of slowing with Memorial Day weekend, the traditional start of the summer driving season, just 10 days away.
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PCBs contaminate Walnut, Rocky Branch creeks
Cancer-causing chemicals have been found in two Raleigh waterways, posing a health hazard to people who eat fish caught in them.
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Cleanup continues at Halifax bird sanctuary
Investigators still are not sure how the oil was spilled from two abandoned tankers but have questioned three people about the spill.
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Relief in sight for state's drought-afflicted farmers
A $6 million grant is helping farmers across the state recover from the drought.
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Oil spill threatens bird sanctuary
Oil leaking from two tankers has flowed into the Sylvan Heights Waterfowl Park, authorities said.
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Refugees, living in Raleigh, await word on Myanmar relatives
Myanmar natives, living in the Triangle, are awaiting word on whether their loved ones are alive after Cyclone Nargis struck the country.
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Duke trustees approve steam plant renovation
The Duke University Board of Trustees on Saturday approved a $20 million renovation of the 1929 steam plant on Campus Drive, which will give the university and medical center more steam-producing capacity and provide a cleaner-burning alternative to coal.
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Biofuels research could mean billions for state's economy
North Carolina will spend $5 million a year to fund a new research facility in an effort to have a tenth of the state's liquid fuel be locally produced biofuels by 2017.
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People turn pedals to save money on commute
The rising cost of gas is fueling a boom in bicycle sales as more Triangle commuters look to pedal away from the pump.
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In fashion, going green is the new black
There's a new trend in fashion, and it's all about going green. More and more designers are using non-toxic dyes and fabrics produced without the use of pesticides.
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Closed areas along Outer Banks upset vacationers, fishermen
The closures of some popular fishing spots to vehicular and foot traffic is affecting business and tourism at the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, but officials say they're bound by a recent legal settlement.
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Gas prices' impact deeper for state roads, farmers
Rising fuel prices cost the state Department of Transportation about $20 million last year, and local farmers are apprehensive about having to cut production and raise prices.
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Energy companies include nukes in response to growth
Progress Energy has applied for two new reactors at Shearon Harris, and N.C. State says more students are choosing a nuclear engineering major.
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Panel calls for delay in Raleigh's recycled water plans
A City Council committee on Wednesday recommended delaying a planned project to build a 17-mile pipeline that would allow some municipal water customers to use treated wastewater for outdoor irrigation.
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Taylortown digs into budget to remove buried houses
The state ordered Taylortown to dig up more than a dozen houses that were illegally buried or face a $15,000 daily fine.
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Pioneering alternative fuel station closes
The state's first all-alternative fuel station has shut off its pumps.
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Earth Day 2008
Raleigh and Durham celebrated upcoming Earth Day on Saturday, April 19, 2008.
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Beach driving debate draws environmental interest
Innovation Exchange: Readers weigh in on battle to limit access to Outer Banks.
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Season's first ozone alert in effect Friday
State air-quality officials have issued the first Code Orange alert of 2008 for the Triangle, Fayetteville and Charlotte areas for Friday.
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Beach-driving lawsuit reaches proposed settlement
Lawyers for environmental groups say they've reached an agreement in principle to settle a lawsuit over beach driving in parts of the Outer Banks.
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Air quality standards higher this Summer
"Ozone season" begins earlier this year when the state Division of Air Quality resumes daily forecasts for pollutants on April 15.
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Where there’s a wheel, there’s a way to biker friendly roads
With gas prices inching higher and higher, more Raleigh cyclists are hitting the pavement. The city's roads, however, are not that bicycle friendly.
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Higher fuel prices extend pain beyond pump
Rising costs for food and services can be linked back to record gasoline prices.
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State again lifts burning ban
The state Division of Forest Resources on Monday lifted its ban on open burning across North Carolina.
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State brings back ban on outdoor burning
Dry, windy conditions led the state to ban outdoor burning as of Thursday at noon.
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Gas stations not pumped about E85
With gasoline prices at record levels, many drivers are searching for cheaper alternatives. But at least one option is hard to come by in the Triangle.
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Kitty Hawk home known for being green
Recent rain has done wonders for Triangle rivers and lakes. But the drought has some people finding ways to put to use the rain that falls at their homes.
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Boaters try to keep afloat with high gas prices
Rising gas prices are hitting boaters hard this spring. The national average price for gasoline rose 7 cents over the last two weeks, according to the Lundberg Survey.
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Gas prices remain near record
If your Easter weekend plans include travel in the Triangle, you can expect to pay about $3.26 per gallon for gas.
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Church gives back to environment for Lent
United Church of Chapel Hill focused on reducing carbon usage for lent this year.
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Poll: N.C. residents want mass transit, not expense
State residents would love to have regional rail systems and other mass transit options – they just don't like the idea of paying for it. Elon University's survey also finds most people satisfied with the state DOT.
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Nuclear power plant engineering firm picks S.C. for 400-job operation
Operation will be 'new hub for our commercial nuclear business,' says URS executive.
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More people take the bus
The Triangle Transit Authority says ridership was up 13 percent in February from a year ago.
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N.C. makes ‘green’ available for green entrepreneurs
The Angel Connection: Department of Commerce initiative will provide grants to companies seeking to build environmentally friendly products, services.
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Lenovo goes ‘green,’ small and quiet with new desktop PC
ThinkCenter ‘Eco’ is smaller than a phone book, receives environmental certification and includes recycled materials.
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CFLs save money, but require caution for disposal
The presence of mercury in compact-fluorescent light bulbs creates some safety concerns that consumers should be aware of before they make the switch.
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Going green produces billions as in dollar$
Cleantech investment in 2007 up 43 percent, tops $3 billion, says Dow Jones survey.
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Gas companies want to raise rates
PSNC, which serves the Triangle and Piedmont Natural Gas have both informed the state they will apply for a rate increase.
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N.C. offers $1M in grants for ‘green,’ alternative energy technology
State program targets small companies; grants can be as much as $100,000.
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RTI-lead team receives up to $2M for biofuels project
Department of Energy funds to boost joint project involving RTI, NCSU, University of Utah. Golden LEAF also provides funding.
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Orange county bans open burning
Authorities in Orange County on Friday reinstituted an outdoor burning ban.
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After fiery weekend, Easley reinstates burn ban statewide
Gov. Mike Easley is reinstating the statewide burning ban, effective at noon Thursday, due to drought and the upcoming spring fire season.
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Cree to buy LED lighting fixtures in $77M deal; price could top $100M
LLF, a Morrisville-based startup focused on light emitting diode fixtures and technology, was founded by executives who helped start Cree. Deal also includes up to additional $26.4M over three years.
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Regional mass transit system inches closer to reality
Leaders from six area counties agreed on Monday to a long-term plan to help balance growth with area transportation needs.
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Progress Energy hopes to expand nuclear plant
Progress Energy wants to build two new reactors at its Shearon Harris site to accommodate growth, but some argue that is precisely what Wake County does not need.
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Triangle home builders go green
The home builders' associations in four Triangle counties have pooled their resources to encourage building environmentally friendly houses.
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Recycled water could keep new homes flowing in drought
Developers would use treated wastewater to prepare new home sites if the ongoing drought forces Raleigh to impose tougher restrictions on water use, according to a proposal made to city officials Monday.
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Public transit works in Charlotte, Triangle leaders learn
Creating a 21st-century vision for growth is what dozens of Raleigh leaders had in mind during a visit this week to Charlotte to learn about what it takes to successfully create and build a mass-transit system.
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Panel: sales tax could pay for regional transit
A half-cent sales tax could ease traffic congestion across the Triangle in the future, a transportation group said Friday.
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State’s Biofuels Center opens in Oxford
Several staff positions have been filled for $5M effort funded by General Assembly.
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State to temporarily lift open burning ban
The N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Bill Ross is expected to temporarily lift the ban on open burning for all 100 countiesWednesday.
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Raleigh business owner invests big bucks to save water
How far would you go to conserve water and keep a green lawn at the same time? One Raleigh home and business owner knew his answer to that question: Spend tens of thousands of dollars, and dig a big canyon.
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'Keep N.C. Clean and Green' not always obeyed
All over the state, signs read: "Keep North Carolina Clean and Green," but not everyone heeds the slogan.
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'Controversial' landfill opens in Holly Springs
The South Wake Landfill in Holly Springs opened Thursday, and some residents said they worry it will trash their town.
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New Wake landfill to open next month
The South Wake Landfill in Holly Springs will open on Thursday, Feb. 7, Wake County officials said Friday.
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NRC recommends Nuke Plant license renewal
The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission staff has determined no environmental impacts would preclude renewing the operating license for the Shearon Harris nuclear power plant.
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Ethanol plant to rise on Raeford corn field
100 permanent jobs are part of the benefit Hoke County hopes to reap from construction of the state's first ethanol plant.
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Progress Energy spells out strategy to reduce energy demand
If users participate, programs could save equivalent of 12 conventional power plants a year, company says.
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Plans approved to expand Person County landfill
Person County leaders approved plans to expand a landfill Monday night.
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Cree stock lights up on news of lighting company buy, strong analyst report
Philips makes $2.7 billion bid for U.S. lighting manufacturer as part of push to expand market for energy-saving bulbs such as LEDs. Cree is a top LED manufacturer, and analyst praises firm in report.
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Raleigh plugs into fuel efficiency
City officials on Tuesday unveiled a plug-in hybrid car that they said should help meet a goal of cutting fossil fuel consumption in municipal government by 20 percent.
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New Triangle consortium to focus on energy
Duke, NCSU, UNC, RTI International team up for variety of energy challenges.
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Clemson, consortium to build biofuels pilot plant
Facility, which will test use of switchgrass for cellulosic ethanol, will be in North Charleston.
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Cree follows customer examples, will go with LED lighting
Tests show LEDs save 48% in energy consumption over other types of light, Cree says.
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Study: clearer focus of aid in third world countries can save lives
A new study is the first to measure the impact that pollution and poor nutrition play in the deaths of million of children of developing countries. Researchers say improvements in certain areas could save many lives.
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N.C. State fair goes green
The North Carolina State Fair has gone green. The lights, rides and games are being powered by an alternative fuel.
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Easley urges more water conservation, orders ban on open burning
Gov. Mike Easley on Monday called for further cutbacks in water consumption by every North Carolinian to conserve limited water supplies that he said will likely continue to shrink in the coming months.
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Wilmington may land 900 nuclear power jobs, $900M in plant expansion
UPDATE: GE-Hitachi Nuclear could land local incentive package on Monday. No announcement from state was made at Department of Commerce on Friday
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Compact fluorescent light bulbs save you money
Compact fluorescent light bulbs are designed to save energy and money on your power bill.
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Mass transit could help ease air pollution
Mass transit could be an answer to help improve the Triangle's air quality.
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Saving power: Progress Energy, Home Depot to offer discounted energy-saving bulbs
Plan to sell promote compact fluorescent light bulbs wins Utility Commission approval.
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Study: Raleigh needs more public transit
In 2005, Raleigh commuters wasted more than 18 million hours of additional time on the roads and more than 11 million gallons of additional gas due to traffic congestion.
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N.C. on cutting edge of biofuels research
The Biofuels Center of North Carolina just put together its strategic plan to lead the state's efforts to ramp up production of alternative fuel.
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Fueling up for launch: Biofuels Center of North Carolina board has first meeting
Funded by $5 million from General Assembly, the center is to help build