Washington, DC – Today, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a proposal to tighten restrictions on greenhouse gas emissions from fossil-fuel power plants. EPA proposed two new rules: one for existing coal and gas plants, and one for new gas plants. The largest facilities must make the earliest and most substantial carbon emission cuts, while retiring coal plants and peak-demand gas units face more lenient standards. New gas plants must implement the latest emission reduction technologies within a specific timeframe.
Statement from Quentin Scott, Federal Director for CCAN:
“CCAN is thrilled by the announcement of EPA’s new rules. These rules are another step towards fulfilling President Biden’s campaign promise to address the climate crisis by implementing necessary and cost-effective changes in the power sector, which is one of the nation’s largest contributors to air pollution. EPA’s moves to reduce greenhouse gas emissions – combined with provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act – are expected to lead to a 50% reduction in nationwide greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. This would put the U.S. on track to reach the levels that scientists have said will be required for us to avert climate catastrophe.”
“Last month CCAN organized 150 leaders and concerned community members in front of EPA Headquarters demanding for this rule to be released. We are encouraged by EPA’s responsiveness to the concerns raised by climate, environmental justice, and health leaders. EPA’s decision to forego industry-friendly delays in implementing pollution rules is a positive step forward. We applaud the Agency’s strong commitment to reducing harmful emissions and promoting a cleaner and more sustainable future. We look forward to continued progress in the months ahead to finalize this critical rule.”
Contact:
Quentin Scott, 773-859-8321, quentin@chesapeakeclimate.org
KC Chartrand, 240-620-7144, kc@chesapeakeclimate.org
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The Chesapeake Climate Action Network is the oldest and largest grassroots organization dedicated exclusively to raising awareness about the impacts and solutions associated with global warming in the Chesapeake Bay region. For more than 20 years, CCAN has been at the center of the fight for clean energy and wise climate policy in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.
