Sierra Club takes on Minnesota coal-fired power plants

An environmental group is holding a dozen events around the state Tuesday to urge Minnesota's utilities to move away from coal-fired power.

The Sierra Club organized a petition drive to advocate for the retirement of two of Xcel Energy's coal-fired units in Sherburne County. Today's events include film screenings and discussions at colleges and high schools.

Organizer Alexis Boxer says Minnesota's younger generations are interested in clean energy.

"There's a lot on the line for future generations, so young people across Minnesota, across the U.S., across the world, really, are taking action to really create the clean energy future that they need," Boxer said. "So when we're talking about moving beyond coal, we're not just talking about transitioning our energy economy, this is very personal for young people."

Coal-fired power plants emit carbon dioxide, which has been linked to climate change.

The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission will discuss the future of the Sherco plant this week, but no immediate decision is expected.

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