Proposed power plant in Hempstead Co.: Comments please

I'm bringing this back up to the top and am requesting comments on SWEPCO's proposed 600MW power plant to be built in Fulton. The Arkansas Public Service Commission recently approved SWEPCO's application for a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility and Public Need, although that ruling may be appealed. Additional approvals for the plant are pending before the Louisiana Public Service Commission and Public Utility Commission of Texas, and the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality is considering the air permit. SWEPCO President Venita McCellon-Allen was in town last week to discuss the status and final regulatory approval process for the project.

The coal-fueled plant would use an ultra-supercritical (USC) steam generation unit. Advocates believe the plant will bring much needed electricity and jobs to the region using clean coal technology. Opponents are concerned with the environmental impact and cite lower greenhouse gas emissions from other forms of electricity generation: nuclear power, tidal power, wind, geothermal generation, etc. Whether you're local or live 500 miles away, I know there are readers out there that are interested in your comments. If you want to post anonymously, that's okay, too.