Here's How Much Duke Energy Must Pay To Settle Coal Ash Leaks

CHARLOTTE, NC — Under a new deal to settle pollution law violations, Duke Energy will pay $84,000 and take steps to stop leaks of potentially dangerous waste from three coal-burning power plants into North Carolina groundwater and nearby rivers. The deal, announced on Tuesday and signed by a company executive, stems from leaks detected at pits holding liquefied coal ash at the Rogers, Allen and Marshall power plants.

Coal ash is residue left after decades of burning coal to generate power. It can contain toxic materials such as arsenic and chromium.

The deal with the state regulator settles pollution law violations involving nearly leaky spots that were detected several years ago that allow contaminated waste into groundwater and the adjoining Catawba and Broad rivers.

Southern Environmental Law Center attorney D.J. Gerken said the deal commits the country's largest electricity company to stopping the pollution.

Photo credit: Chuck Burton/Associated Press