By Scout Nelson
Governor Jim Pillen expressed strong support for a new lawsuit filed by Attorney General Mike Hilgers, which seeks to stop the closure of coal energy generation at Omaha Public Power District’s (OPPD) North Omaha Station.
The governor called this action a crucial step toward preserving and expanding energy production in Nebraska and across the nation.
“It’s foolish for any power district to turn away from the single most affordable means of energy production known to mankind,” said Gov. Pillen. “Nebraska is blessed to have readily available coal reserves in Wyoming and the railroad infrastructure to get it here.”
The governor stressed that energy security is vital to national security, noting that other nations are expanding their coal production efforts.
“Foreign adversaries have sped up their own coal production, most notably China and Russia. It is unfathomable why we would take any action that would slow or stop our own expansion of coal-driven energy.”
Pillen has long advocated for maintaining and improving coal infrastructure to guarantee a steady, cost-efficient energy supply for Nebraskans. He stated that the lawsuit represents a major step forward in achieving this mission.
“Today’s coal production does not carry the same emission risks that it did in the past. The scrubbing technology that is used today is very efficient and very effective in removing pollutants. Science is on our side, allowing us to make coal energy into clean energy.”
The governor reiterated that clean, affordable, and reliable energy sources remain essential to powering Nebraska’s homes, industries, and future growth.
Additional details about the legal action can be found on the Nebraska Attorney General’s official website at ago.nebraska.gov.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-skyf
Categories: Nebraska, Energy, Government & Policy