A group of 45 scientists, including some who formerly worked for the EPA, is urging North Carolina officials not to approve Duke Energy's plan to build more gas-fired power plants.
Duke wants to expand its use of natural gas as part of a plan to reduce and eventually eliminate carbon emissions by 2050.
In a letter to Gov. Roy Cooper and Duke Energy CEO Lynn Good Monday, the scientists say Duke should "begin winding down" its use of natural gas - not increase it. They want to see more solar and wind power, and battery storage.
The North Carolina Utilities Commission has until Dec. 31 to approve a carbon plan that meets the state's climate goals.