The Biden administration has taken significant steps to phase out the use of coal in powering America. The Environmental Protection Agency recently issued four key regulations aimed at reducing various harmful emissions from coal-fired power plants, which are known to be the dirtiest source of electricity in the country.
The most impactful regulation focuses on drastically reducing carbon dioxide emissions from coal plants. The other three rules target cutting mercury emissions, limiting toxic ash leakage into water sources, and decreasing wastewater discharge from these plants.
It is anticipated that these regulations, once enacted, will lead to the closure of nearly all remaining coal plants in the United States by the year 2040.
Here’s an overview of President Biden’s efforts to clean up coal power.
Are the New Rules a Big Deal?
Absolutely. While electric utilities have been complying with environmental regulations for years, these new standards are the most comprehensive and challenging. The industry argues that meeting these standards is practically impossible, as there is currently no widely utilized technology to significantly reduce carbon dioxide emissions from coal plant smokestacks.
The timeline for the implementation of the new rules is as follows: existing coal plants expected to operate beyond 2039 must cut their greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2032, while plants set to close by 2039 need to reduce emissions by 16% by 2030. Plants retiring before 2032 are exempt from these regulations.
Where Are These Coal-Fired Power Plants?
Coal plants are located across the country, with significant concentrations in states like Pennsylvania, Texas, Indiana, Wyoming, Kentucky, West Virginia, and Iowa.
Can the New Rules Be Overturned?
Yes, there are two potential avenues for overturning the regulations. Republican-led states and the coal industry are likely to challenge the rules in court. Additionally, a second Trump administration could pose a threat to these regulations, as former President Donald J. Trump has expressed intentions to support fossil fuels and roll back Biden’s environmental policies if re-elected.
