The Town Council of Carrboro in North Carolina has filed a lawsuit against Duke Energy, accusing the utility of misleading the public on fossil fuel emissions and the adoption of renewable energy. The suit, backed by NC WARN, seeks damages for climate-related harms, citing Hurricane Helene’s impact. Critics, including the Consumer Choice Center, argue that the lawsuit is political theater and undermines North Carolina’s clean energy progress. Data shows that the state has reduced carbon dioxide emissions from electricity by 52% since 2005. However, critics point out that this reduction pales in comparison to China’s increase in emissions. Duke Energy, which supplies over 90% of North Carolina’s retail electricity sales, is accused of expanding fossil fuels and suppressing renewables. The lawsuit has sparked debate among environmental experts, with some questioning the use of storm damage to further the climate change argument. Despite criticism, Carrboro’s mayor stands by the lawsuit, emphasizing the need to address the climate crisis. The lawsuit marks the first time a municipality has sued an energy utility over climate-related issues. The outcome of the lawsuit will likely have far-reaching implications for the energy industry and climate change activism in the state.
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