DURHAM -- A coalition of North Carolina environmental groups is suing Duke Energy under the federal Clean Water Act over pollution leaking from the company's coal ash basins.

Water keeper Alliance's Clean-Safe Energy Campaign Manager Donna Lisenby says there is a common theme at the ash basins across the state.

"They are leaking various heavy metals into surface water and ground water through illegal, unpermitted discharges."

Duke Energy Spokesperson Jeff Brooks says they are committed to cleaning up their ash basins.

"We're swiftly moving to close these ash basins and that will ultimately resolve any issues that have arisen. We are working towards that end, to close those basins in a way that is fact-based and environmentally sound."

Coal ash contains numerous chemicals that are toxic to humans, including arsenic, lead, chromium and thallium.