An environmental group is looking into mercury pollution from several new coal-fired power plants across the country -- including one in Hastings.

The Sierra Club said it wants to ensure the Whelan 2 Energy Plant and others have a plan in place that will limit mercury emissions.

Citizens for Renewable Energy in Hastings said standards for new coal-fired power plants have not been as strict as they should be.

Robin Vodehnal with Citizens for Renewable Energy said the Whelan 2 Energy Center should go beyond the minimal EPA standards to control mercury.

Hastings Utilities officials say there are plans to install mercury emission controls on the new plant that will reduce mercury emissions by 90 percent.