Residents of North Carolina voiced their concerns during the Duke Marshall Public Hearing held by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) on November 19, 2024. The meeting highlighted significant community apprehensions regarding Duke Energy's compliance with environmental standards and the potential impact of their operations on local neighborhoods.

One of the primary issues raised was the lack of transparency and reliable data regarding Duke Energy's environmental practices. Sheera Mosca, a resident, questioned the validity of the data presented by the company, noting that much of it dated back to the 1970s or was self-reported by Duke. This concern was echoed by fellow resident Tanya Hall, who expressed frustration over the community's lack of notification about the permit application for Duke's operations. Hall emphasized that the planned increase in truck traffic—estimated at 200 to 400 trucks daily—would significantly affect the quality of life for the 350 homes in her Northview community, located near the steam station.

Hall also highlighted ongoing issues with Duke Energy's failure to meet environmental standards, citing a history of contaminated wells and the company's deceptive claims regarding the health impacts of coal ash. She pointed out that despite promises made during the development of their community, Duke Energy has not upheld its commitment to avoid causing nuisances to local residents.

Thomas Getz, a retired water pollution control expert, added his voice to the discussion, urging the DEQ to reconsider any permits that would allow further fossil fuel emissions. He reflected on decades of environmental science, noting that the worsening climate crisis has been evident for years and that immediate action is necessary to prevent further damage.

The hearing underscored a growing demand from residents for accountability and stricter oversight of Duke Energy's operations. As the community grapples with these environmental concerns, the DEQ faces pressure to ensure that the interests of local residents are prioritized in future decisions regarding energy permits and environmental regulations. The outcomes of this meeting could have lasting implications for both the community's health and the region's environmental policies.