"Dirtier rivers or higher electric prices.

That's what environmentalists and utility officials say is at stake in an upcoming federal court ruling in Virginia could have far-reaching effects on how energy companies dispose of coal ash waste left over from decades of burning coal. Spurred by high-profile coal ash spills and new federal regulations, utilities are grappling with the disposal of vast amounts of the heavy-metal-laced waste.

In Richmond, Judge James A. Gibney Jr. heard four days of arguments and complex testimony last month from experts about what should be done at a Dominion Virginia Power coal ash site along the Elizabeth River in southeast Virginia. He hasn't said when he will rule."

Alan Suderman reports for the Associated Press July 12, 2016. [2]

SEE ALSO:

"Virginia Coal Ash Case Could Have National Implications" (Christian Science Monitor) [3]