Topeka ? A proposed massive, coal-fired electric project in western Kansas would cause health and environmental problems for generations to come, opponents of the facility said today.

“We don’t need these out-dated, pollution-generating plants,” Sarah Dean of Jefferson County said.

But executives of Sunflower Electric Power Corp. said the 2,100-megawatt project near Holcomb complied with all environmental rules and would help the economy.

“We need the power, and we need the economic stimulus that will result from this project in rural Kansas,” said Earl Watkins, president and chief executive officer of Sunflower Electric.

Testimony from both sides of the issue was taken today by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, which will decide whether Sunflower gets a permit to build the project. Nearly 100 people attended the hearing.

Another public hearing on the proposal will be held Nov. 16 in Lawrence in the Malott Room of the Kansas Union, 1301 Jayhawk Blvd.

Sunflower Electric has proposed building three 700-megawatt, coal-fired electric plants.

A public comment period on the proposal will run through Nov. 30.

All comments should be submitted in writing to Rick Bolfing, KDHE Bureau of Air and Radiation, 1000 S.W. Jackson, Suite 310, Topeka 66612-1366 or presented at the hearings.