U.S. Environmental Protection Agency proposed tougher carbon dioxide emissions standards for coal- and gas-fired power plants.
EPA's proposed the new rules aim to curb greenhouse gas emissions from the nation's power sector while protecting public health and delivering up to $85 billion in climate and other benefits over the next two decades, according to a May 11 news release.
"By proposing new standards for fossil fuel-fired power plants, EPA is delivering on its mission to reduce harmful pollution that threatens people's health and wellbeing," EPA Administrator Michael Regan said in the news release. "EPA's proposal relies on proven, readily available technologies to limit carbon pollution and seizes the momentum already underway in the power sector to move toward a cleaner future. Alongside historic investment taking place across America in clean energy manufacturing and deployment, these proposals will help deliver tremendous benefits to the American people — cutting climate pollution and other harmful pollutants, protecting people’s health and driving American innovation."
The proposed new rules would "avoid" up to 617 million metric tons of total carbon dioxide emissions through 2042, equivalent to annual emissions reductions of 137 million passenger vehicles, about half the nation's cars. EPA estimates that, during the same time period, the net climate and health benefits of the proposed standards would translate into $85 billion, according to the release.
The proposed standards also would target reductions in particulate matter, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide, all of which pose health risks, especially in communities disproportionately affected by pollution, the release reported. EPA estimates the standards would prevent 1,300 premature deaths and more than 800 hospital visits, as well as 300,000 asthma attacks and other health-related issues, by 2030.
The proposed news standards align with President Joe Biden's clean energy agenda, the release said.
The proposed standards focus on fossil fuel-fired stationary combustion turbines in newly built plants and existing facilities, the release said. The proposed standards consider various technologies, including carbon capture and storage and low-greenhouse gas hydrogen co-firing, to improve emissions performance. The proposed news standards also emphasize stakeholder engagement, particularly with communities disproportionately affected by pollution and climate change.
The EPA is accepting public comments about the proposed new standards for 60 days after publication in the Federal Register and plans to conduct virtual trainings and a public hearing to gather feedback on the proposal, the release said.
