Alabama Power Faces Growing Threat from Coal Ash Pond
Alabama Power once appeared ready to take responsible action, but now seems more focused on hiding the consequences of its coal waste. The issue is drawing renewed attention from business and environmental leaders across the state.
Warning from RSA CEO David Bronner
David Bronner, CEO of the Retirement Systems of Alabama (RSA), recently urged state officials to confront the environmental threat posed by the massive coal ash pond near the Mobile River. In his message from The Advisor newsletter to RSA members, he emphasized urgent cooperation among key stakeholders.
“We do not need finger-pointing; we need to, jointly, with Alabama Power, our Washington team, and our state team, unite and start the long process to solve this huge environmental bomb NOW, NOT IGNORE IT until Mother Nature decides to let it bust loose and damage Mobile Bay, affecting not just Mobile Bay but the entire state.”
Environmental Risks Along the Mobile River
The coal ash pond at the Barry Electric Generating Plant, about 25 miles north of Mobile, holds approximately 22 million cubic yards of coal combustion waste — the residue left after coal-based power generation. The pond lies on the banks of the Mobile River, raising serious concerns among environmental groups about possible contamination of both the river and nearby groundwater sources.
“That problem hangs over all of Alabama, like a knife to your throat,” Bronner cautioned. “A breach of the Mobile site would clearly damage Mobile Bay for decades.”
Growing Public and Environmental Concern
Environmental advocates have applauded Bronner’s call for action, viewing it as a long-overdue push to address one of Alabama’s most pressing ecological risks. Reporter Margaret Kates of AL.com continues to cover the unfolding developments around this issue.
Author’s Summary
State leaders face rising pressure to confront the coal ash crisis threatening Alabama’s waterways, as experts warn that inaction risks long-term environmental disaster.