State sues Progress Energy over Asheville-area discharge

According to the suit, state inspectors found the plant was releasing toxins beyond allowed limits from the Asheville Steam Station Electric Generating Plant in Buncombe County. The contaminated released flow toward the French Broad River.

The state Division of Water Quality will use the report, to be compiled and delivered by Progress within four months, to asses whether drinking water quality in the Asheville area has been compromised.

"We are reviewing today’s filing and believe we have diligently complied with the plant’s environmental permit," Progress Energy said in a statement. "We welcome the opportunity to resolve these issues with the state, which is responsible for safeguarding our lakes and rivers."