New EPA rules tighten restrictions around fossil fuel power plants

On April 25 the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the finalization of a new set of rules regarding emissions from electricity generating plants powered by fossil fuels authorized under authorities granted by the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and Resource Conservation and Recovery Act.

According to the EPA’s press release the rules were released simultaneously to enable better planning on the part of utilities and power generators and eliminate the need to deal with piecemeal regulations.

“Today, EPA is proud to make good on the Biden-Harris Administration’s vision to tackle climate change and to protect all communities from pollution in our air, water, and in our neighborhoods,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan in a press release. “By developing these standards in a clear, transparent, inclusive manner, EPA is cutting pollution while ensuring that power companies can make smart investments and continue to deliver reliable electricity for all Americans.”

The four key regulations include requirements that coal-fired power plants and new natural gas-fired power plants control 90 percent of their carbon pollution. Emissions standards for mercury and other toxic metals will also be tightened, requiring a 70 percent reduction. A rule regarding discharge of wastewater is anticipated by the EPA to cut the amount discharged by coal-fired plants by 660 million pounds per year. Lastly, previously unregulated coal ash storage will now face stricter management requirements.

The announcement can be read in its entirety here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/biden-harris-administration-finalizes-suite-standards-reduce-pollution-fossil-fuel