RALEIGH, N.C. --  As North Carolina’s population continues to grow, the state's electric utilities have come up with a projected demand forecast that requires additional nuclear and coal fired plants.

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But some say the utilities have overestimated that demand and they asked the public utilities commission to hold hearings on the matter, because the cost of building those plants is passed on to customers.

Monday night, the commission began that process by hearing from those opposed to the new plants.

“I would just ask that you please continue to do your job and ensure that all companies' projections of need are based on are based on reality,” said Durham resident Molly Beecham, who was among those testifying.

Utilities contend as demand grows exponentially, they will need more ways to generate the power that people need to enjoy their current lifestyles.

But opponents of the new nuclear and coal plants say they aren't necessary.

“Duke Energy and Progress Energy are intending to risk tens of billions of public dollars on these new large power plants and they pretty clearly want to sell energy outside of this region,” said Jim Warren of the advocacy group NC WARN.

Close to 100 people came to Raleigh to essentially tell that same thing to the public utilities commission Monday night. The hearing room was packed with those opposed to the plants---because almost everyone in the room wore a sticker showing they were on the same side as NC WARN.

Several utility officials from both Duke and Progress Energy were at the hearing to question those who were testifying against the new plants.

Progress Energy's Len Anthony was one of those who was questioning witnesses. He told NBC-17 he was not allowed to talk as a spokesman, and that Monday night’s hearing was not designed for the industry to be able to refute any of the testimony from the public.

The industry gets its chance Tuesday, at a second evidentiary hearing that takes place at 9:30 a.m. in the Commission’s hearing room in the Dobbs Building in downtown Raleigh.

At that time, the industry will be able to present its side to the public utilities commission.

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