Duke Power is continuing to seek state approval to build a nearly $300-million peak load power plant near Spencer at the Buck Steam Plant.
Nearly two months ago, Duke Power and its parent company, Duke Energy, announced it will build a new plant in Cherokee, S.C., casting doubt on the company’s plans in Rowan.
The N.C. Utilities Commission has scheduled a hearing for Nov. 8 on the Duke application to build an eight-unit combustion turbine generating facility at Buck Steam Plant near Spencer.
The planned facility would use natural gas to generate 640 megawatts of electricity. If constructed, it could become the third peak-load power facility erected in Rowan in recent years. Such generating plants are designed to operate only during the periods of highest power demand.
A spokesman for Duke Power said Wednesday that the hearing is a continuation of the process to get all needed permits.
“Rowan County is still an attractive site. It’s still a viable location for us,” said Sandra McGee of Duke Power.
Late last year, Duke announced plans to build a plant during 2003.
The company filed similar applications in both the Carolinas.
The process apparently moved more quickly in South Carolina with Duke already getting required permits.
Duke officials will make a decision within the next couple of months on whether to proceed with the Rowan facility, McGee said.
County officials continue to be optimistic that Duke will build the plant here, adding a large amount to the tax base.
Rowan has offered Duke the same incentive package given to CP&Land Entergy, a refund of up to 85 percent of taxes paid the county for the first five years after start up.
CP&L’s facility off old N.C. 801 began operating this year.
Entergy, a Texas-based company is pursuing permits to build a nearly $400-million, eight-turbine unit off old U.S. 70.
The permitting process is expected to take several months.
Because Duke opted to build the South Carolina plant, to go on line in 2003, the operational date for the proposed Rowan facility would likely change to 2004.
The commission opted to reopen the hearing because of the change in schedule, McGee said.
Buck’s anniversary
The 640-acre Buck Steam Station, located beside the Yadkin River east of the Interstate 85 bridge, began generating electricity in 1926.
Buck Steam Plant is preparing to celebrate its 75th anniversary.
The Duke spokesman said an open house and various activities are being planned for Saturday, Oct. 13 at the facility.
Contact Jessie Burchette at jburchette@salisburypost.com or call 704-797-4254.
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