We need the Campbell for reliable energy, and we need data centers to compete in the modern economy. But we need data centers and the electric grid under our local control and done environmentally right, which is why I seek it only be co-located with the Campbell (and no use of backup generators) and have to use the Campbell’s treated wastewater that would otherwise be riskily injected underground at likely higher cost. Done this way via a local elected electric cooperative board, we can lower residential electric rates and avoid wasting our valuable farmlands on unreliable solar.
I might add that I recommend converting the oldest unit 1 of the Campbell to gas, but definitely leaving the youngest and cleanest unit 3 as coal. We need the local combination for our energy security, especially at a time the worldwide oil/gas market is under severe stress.
But I need the help of fellow local citizens and political leaders to turn this common-sense plan into reality by God’s grace, even as we had to work together to delay the closure of the Campbell with Trump Administration assistance by God’s grace.
Local voters should be given the opportunity to decide if we want such local control of our electric grid versus leaving it up to Consumers Energy executives under MPSC control.