LDEQ public hearing on power station draws little interest
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality held a public hearing in Rayville on air permits for Entergy Louisiana’s proposed Richland Parish 3 and 4 Power Station. Residents raised concerns about greenhouse-gas emissions, air quality and potential effects on water, while Entergy said the project would provide reliable power and support regional growth.
About 30 people attended an LDEQ hearing on Entergy Louisiana LLC’s proposed Richland Parish 3 and 4 Power Station northeast of Rayville. The agency is reviewing the facility’s Part 70 air operating permit, PSD permit, Acid Rain Permit and associated environmental assessment.
Entergy project manager Mike Wilson said the station would include two natural-gas combined-cycle units producing about 750 megawatts each, along with emissions controls and air-cooled technology intended to reduce water use. Residents including Patricia Bell and Angela Collins expressed concerns about greenhouse-gas emissions, respiratory health and possible impacts on water quality. Rayville Alderman Jordan Hubbard requested permit documents so local officials could help residents understand the project’s potential effects.