"Arizona Public Service Co. plans to partially close one of the nation's dirtiest coal-fired power generators, the Four Corners Power Plant in New Mexico, company officials said Monday.

If state and federal regulators approve, APS will spend $294 million buying a larger stake in two of the plant's newer, larger, cleaner-burning generators to replace what power it loses in closing the oldest three units.

The massive, 47-year-old plant supplies power to customers in four states, and the move could affect utility rates and air quality across the Southwest, as well as the economy of the Navajo Nation where it is located."

Ryan Randazzo reports for the Arizona Republic November 8, 2010. [2]