Tuesday, May 5, 2009

Governor makes coal deal | CJOnline.com

Governor makes coal deal CJOnline.com

Gov. Mark Parkinson unveiled a secret agreement Monday to break a political stalemate over construction of a coal-fired utility plant at Holcomb and to advance renewable energy policy for the entire state.

The Democratic governor, on the job for one week, joined the top executive at Sunflower Electric Power Corp., of Hays, to outline a deal guaranteeing state permits for a single, 895-megawatt coal-fired power unit. The company must give up on building two units producing 1,400 megawatts of electricity.

Here’s a catch: Republican leaders in the Legislature must pass an array of energy policy changes advocated by environmentalists.
I have to admit I am impressed. This has the makings of a good compromise, since nobody is completely happy with the result, but all can live with it. I am happy for my friends in Southwest Kansas who will see a boost to their economy from this plant.

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