Rowan residents speak out against Buck Station expansion, rate hikes, Long Ferry data center at Utility Commission public hearing

The North Carolina Utility Commission (NCUC) conducted a public comment period in Salisbury on March 24 regarding Duke Energy's plan to expand its Buck Station. The proposal involves adding two hydrogen-capable natural gas combustion turbines, designed to add 850 megawatts to the power grid. While public officials, including Rowan Economic Development Council President and CEO Rod Crider and County Chair Greg Edds, advocated for the expansion as crucial for future economic growth in Rowan County, many local residents expressed significant concerns. Residents highlighted environmental impacts on local flora and fauna, ongoing issues with coal ash cleanup from the former plant on the site, and the potential for increased electricity rates. A major point of contention was the connection between the power plant expansion and a "potential data center" on Long Ferry Road, with residents forming a Facebook group and an online petition to oppose it. Duke Energy spokesperson Bill Norton clarified that there is no direct connection between the Buck project and a specific data center, stating that Duke Energy does not offer discounted rates to data centers and that all residential customers face the same rates. He also noted that by 2030, data centers are projected to account for 10% of Duke Energy's capacity, up from the current 1%. The NCUC is expected to review the application and public comments, issuing a decision in the coming months, while opposition to the potential data center continues.