OSC Garrard was deployed to provide oversight at a 2700 PCB transformer oil release in Lincolnton, Lincoln County, NC. The release occurred at a Duke Energy Substation. Duke Energy is reporting that vandals removed the drain valves on three 900-gallon transformers. All of the transformers released their contents. Duke is currently assuming that the oil contains PCB’s due to the age of the transformers. The transformers are located in an earthen berm. Duke Energy is reporting that oil has left containment. The substation is located 0.2 of a mile from the South Fork of the Catawba River. It is currently raining and forecasts predict spotty rain throughout the day and into tomorrow. Duke Energy cleanup contractors are on site. Crews are currently de-energizing and removing equipment.
