Biden Admin to Cut 90% of Coal Plant Emissions by 2032, Shut Down by 2039

Apr 25, 2024, 12:29 PM

The Biden administration has announced sweeping new environmental regulations targeting the power sector, particularly focusing on coal-fired power plants. Under the new rules, these plants are required to cut carbon dioxide emissions by 90% by 2032 and completely eliminate emissions or shut down by 2039, despite opposition from the gas industry. This ambitious initiative, announced by EPA Administrator Michael Regan, is part of a broader effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. The administration has also finalized standards to eliminate onsite fossil fuel usage in new federal buildings by the end of the decade. Additionally, the EPA has introduced regulations to reduce pollution from power plants, which include cutting mercury emissions and managing coal ash more effectively, with an estimated compliance cost of $19 billion. These measures have sparked a mix of support and criticism, with some praising the environmental benefits and others warning of increased energy costs and grid reliability issues.