Source: Mark Barrett, ASHEVILLE CITIZEN-TIMES, 1/1/17

Duke Energy says it has begun some work on the planned conversion of its coal-fired generating plant on Lake Julian to use natural gas and foundation work and other construction should start in early 2017. Duke still needs some permit approvals but work is on schedule and the Charlotte-based utility expects the new $1 billion plant to be completed and generating electricity in late 2019, said company spokeswoman Meghan Miles.

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