Topic: EPA

RELEASE: New Report Presents Pathway for U.S. to Reach 17 Percent Emissions Target

Michael Oko — Wed, 06 Feb 2013 00:10:44 -0500

Analysis finds U.S. is currently not on track to reach its 17% target, but has the tools to get there <!–break–>

New analysis by the World Resources Institute finds that the United States is currently not on track to reach its stated goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 17 percent by 2020 (below 2005 levels), but it has the tools to get there. The new report, “Can the U.S. Get There from Here?” explores specific steps the Administration and states can take to reduce U.S. emissions, without Congressional action.

“President Obama has put tackling climate change high on his agenda. Our analysis shows that with strong leadership and ambitious action the Administration can make a significant dent in U.S. emissions,” said Dr. Andrew Steer, President, World Resources Institute. “Meeting the 17 percent target would signal that the U.S. is serious about climate change at home and would enhance U.S. leadership on the international stage.”

The analysis finds that the Administration has the opportunity to move forward in four key areas:

Implementing strong standards for carbon dioxide pollution from existing power plants;
Reducing non-energy sources of emissions, including hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which are commonly found in refrigerators and air conditioners;
Limiting methane emissions from natural gas production; and
Increasing energy efficiency from industry and home appliances.

“The Administration has multiple ways to move forward with smart policies to reduce U.S. emissions. The best opportunity is to enact new standards for existing power plants, which represent one-third of all U.S. emissions,” said Nicholas Bianco, Senior Associate, WRI, and the lead author of the report. “The Administration has the ability to put the U.S. on track to meet its commitments, and can do so in a cost-effective and efficient manner.”

The report also finds that states can take meaningful action and can use their authority to supplement federal actions. Twenty-nine U.S. states have renewable energy standards and 20 have energy efficiency standards. Some states are moving forward with ambitious climate policies. For example, California just launched a cap-and-trade program that will cover 85 percent of the state’s emissions. California also has a target to produce 33 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2020. On the East Coast, nine states have capped emissions from the power sector through the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI).

While meeting the 17 percent target is achievable, scientific authorities have found that it will take deeper reductions to avoid the worst consequences of climate change. Reaching the longer-term goals will likely take additional action from Congress. In the meantime, there is much more the Administration can do to reduce U.S. emissions.

“In meeting its goal, the U.S. can join the global community in taking on the climate crisis. Reducing emissions will benefit U.S. citizens and encourage other countries to make greater reductions,” said Dr. Steer. “It’s clear that the longer the U.S. waits, the harder – and more expensive – it will be. The Administration has the tools. We look forward to seeing what steps they take to shift the country to a low-carbon pathway.”

NOTE: The full report can be found here.

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ADVISORY: Report Launch: Can the U.S. Get There From Here?

Michael Oko — Wed, 30 Jan 2013 12:40:33 -0500

WRI to release major new report on climate change and U.S. emissions

On Wednesday, February 6, the World Resources Institute will host an event at the National Press Club to release a major new report on climate and U.S. emissions: “Can the U.S. Get There From Here?” The report examines pathways for the United States to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions using existing federal authorities and state actions.

In his inauguration, President Obama pledged to make climate change a priority in his second term. This report lays out the steps the Administration can take to make significant progress on climate change in the coming years.

The report explores whether the U.S. is on track to meet its commitment to reduce its emissions by 17 percent by 2020 (below 2005 levels). It looks at what steps the federal government and states can take to meet this goal, and to go further. And, it explains why this matters at home and overseas.

The event will feature commentary by Dr. Susan Tierney, Managing Principal of the Analysis Group, WRI Board member, and former Assistant Secretary for Policy at the U.S. Department of Energy; Dr. Andrew Steer, President, World Resources Institute; and Nicholas Bianco, Senior Associate, World Resources Institute, and the lead author of the report.

This analysis is an update to WRI’s seminal report from 2010, “Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions in the United States Using Existing Federal Authorities and State Action,” which focused on how the U.S. could reduce its emissions without Congressional action.

A continental breakfast will be served.

WHAT
Launch of “Can the U.S. Get There From Here?” a major report by WRI on climate change and U.S. emissions

WHO
Dr. Susan Tierney, Managing Principal, the Analysis Group and WRI Board Member
Dr. Andrew Steer, President & CEO, World Resources Institute
Nicholas Bianco, Senior Associate, World Resources Institute, and lead author

WHERE
National Press Club
First Amendment Room
529 14th Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 20045

WHEN
Wednesday, February 6, 2013 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. ET

CALL-IN INFO
Toll-free (U.S.): (888) 848-6714
Toll (Int’l): +1 (773) 756-4804
Passcode: “WRI”

Twitter hashtag: #usghg

Note: please arrive by 9:15 a.m. to register. The event will start promptly at 9:30 a.m.

RSVP Required: press@wri.org

STATEMENT: EPA Finalizes New Clean Air Standards For Boilers - A “Gift for People and the Planet”

James Anderson — Fri, 21 Dec 2012 13:06:04 -0500

The U.S. Environment Protection Agency finalized new standards for boilers and certain incinerators, the Boiler Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) rules, today to protect people from exposure to hazardous, toxic air pollution from industrial, commercial and institutional boilers. By encouraging industry to use cleaner-burning fuels and to make efficiency improvements, the Boiler MACT will modernize U.S. industry, reduce toxins, and cut carbon pollution.

Following is a statement by James Bradbury, Senior Associate, World Resources Institute:

“Just in time for the holidays, this is a welcome gift for people and the planet. These new environmental standards will help spur greater efficiency across a range of U.S. industrial and commercial energy users. The EPA has taken steps to ensure that the rule will promote energy efficiency by improving environmental performance while increasing flexibility for affected facilities. This is good news for the manufacturing workforce, for public health, and for the climate.”

Background:

As required by the Clean Air Act amendments of 1990, major sources of toxic air emissions from coal, oil and biomass-fired boilers will soon be subject to technology-based emissions limits. The rule’s emissions limits will apply to certain new and existing major source boilers, which will have three years to comply by reducing emissions to levels that are consistent with demonstrated maximum achievable control technologies, or MACT standards.

Because the emissions limits under the Boiler MACT affect the largest and dirtiest polluters, 99 percent of the U.S. boilers are either unaffected or can comply with the new standards by conducting periodic maintenance or regular tune-ups. These tune-ups can improve energy efficiency as they reduce toxic air emissions.

ADVISORY: WRI's Stories to Watch 2013

James Anderson — Thu, 20 Dec 2012 14:03:26 -0500

WRI will host its 10th annual Stories to Watch event on Tuesday, January 15, 2013, at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. Dr. Andrew Steer, WRI’s President & CEO, will present insights into the big environmental and international development trends and events that will affect people and the planet in 2013.

Topics will likely include: What will the Obama Administration do to address climate and energy? How will China’s new leadership advance its goal of “ecological progress”? What countries will emerge on the forefront of sustainability? And, how will financial constraints impact businesses seeking to shift to a more sustainable pathway?

A continental breakfast will be served.

WHAT
World Resources Institute’s Stories to Watch 2013

WHO
Dr. Andrew Steer, President & CEO, World Resources Institute.

Dr. Steer is a leading expert on economic development and environmental issues. He has three decades of experience working on international development and on the front lines in Asia and Africa, and at a senior level in international policy roles.

WHERE
National Press Club
Holeman Lounge
529 14th Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 20045

CALL-IN INFO
USA (Toll Free): (866) 803-2143
International (Toll): + 1 (210) 795-1098

Access code: “WRI”

WHEN
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
9:00 - 10:30 a.m. ET

Use #STW2013 on Twitter.

RSVP required to press@wri.org

STATEMENT: President Obama Elected to a Second Term

Michael Oko — Tue, 06 Nov 2012 23:04:46 -0500

Following is a statement by Andrew Steer, President, World Resources Institute:

“With his re-election, President Obama has the opportunity to fulfill the promise of his campaign and tackle the greatest challenges of our generation. At the top of the list should be climate change—which is already taking a serious toll on people, property, resources and the economy.

“After a long and bruising battle, it’s time for elected officials to get off the stump and get back to the job of governing. It’s time for America’s leaders to come together and find common ground on vital issues for people and the planet.

“In its first term, the Obama administration made real progress to reduce harmful emissions and shift the country toward cleaner energy. The administration implemented historic clean vehicle rules, proposed standards for greenhouse gas emissions for new power plants, and directed unprecedented investments in clean energy, among other achievements.

“But, these actions aren’t enough. The reality is that the Obama Administration has not yet put the country on a pathway to truly confront the climate crisis. First off, the United States needs a strong national climate and energy strategy. The president should begin by re-engaging a dialogue on climate change and identifying the actions needed to address the crisis. The president should work with Congress on national-level policies, including putting a price on carbon, to get the country on a low-carbon trajectory. In addition, the EPA, in particular, has the ability to implement new standards to reduce dangerous greenhouse gases from existing power plants. The president should reject proposals that would over-exploit America’s resources, decimate its lands, or increase its dependence on high-carbon fuels.

“Many leading businesses are looking for greater clarity to stay competitive in the global economy and take advantage of the emerging $2.3 trillion clean energy market. They need to set long-term goals, which are currently being undercut by America’s piecemeal approach on climate and energy.

“In the international arena, the Administration should take a more constructive role around the climate negotiations. President Obama has shown the power of bold leadership on big international issues—and he has the opportunity to make an ambitious international climate agreement part of his legacy.

“Since he took office, President Obama has been a champion of transparency and good governance. In particular, he spurred the creation of the Open Government Partnership, consisting of over 40 countries, to promote transparency and citizen engagement around the world. In his second term, he can help ensure that access to information and citizen engagement in government will continue unabated.

“Just last week, Hurricane Sandy delivered a crippling blow, reminding us what climate change looks like. Climate change is here and its impacts are being felt today. In its aftermath, we have seen how people can come together in times of need, set aside their differences, and focus on the big picture. We need to learn from these lessons and turn them into action.

“President Obama’s legacy will be shaped by his ability to take on big challenges, including climate change, clean energy, environmental protection, and sustainability. The next four years will determine if we will truly be able to say that this presidency moved the country ‘Forward!’”

STATEMENT: Obama Administration Finalizes Emissions Standards for Light-Duty Vehicles

Lauren Zelin — Tue, 28 Aug 2012 12:56:16 -0400

The Obama Administration announced the finalized historic fuel economy and greenhouse gas emissions standards for light-duty vehicles. The final program for model year 2017-2025 passenger cars and trucks will require an average CO2-level of 163 grams per mile, which is equivalent to 54.5 miles per gallon by 2025, if all reductions are made through fuel-economy improvements.

Today’s action builds on the first phase of the Obama Administration’s national program (2012-2016), which would raise fuel efficiency equivalent to 35.5 mpg by 2016 and lower CO2 emissions standards to 250 grams per mile.

Following is a statement by Kevin Kennedy, U.S. Climate Director, World Resources Institute:

“These rules will take a real bite out of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, and in a way that’s good for consumers and the auto industry. Following the summer of extreme weather and with mounting evidence of climate change all around, the need for greater action could not be clearer.

“EPA and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimate that the national plan will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 6 billion metric tons. Light-duty vehicles account for approximately 17 percent of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions.

“These standards will also save consumers money by reducing the amount of fuel needed by drivers in America. EPA and NHTSA estimate together the plan will save 12 billion barrels of oil, which is more than the total gasoline the United States consumed in 2011 (approximately 3.2 billion barrels).

“Even with a recent dip, U.S. emissions are expected to grow and will significantly impact our planet—bringing more extreme weather and other dangerous impacts to people and the economy. While more needs to be done, these rules will play an important role in driving down U.S. emissions over time.”

# # # #

For more background on the auto standards, read: What To Look For In The EPA’s Forthcoming Standards On Emissions From Light-Duty Vehicles.

STATEMENT: DC Court Supports EPA on Climate Change

Michael Oko — Tue, 26 Jun 2012 17:00:11 -0400

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit today upheld key actions taken by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to regulate greenhouse gases, including the endangerment finding, vehicle emission standards, and the tailoring rule for stationary sources.

The appeals court noted that the Supreme Court had previously ruled that the agency “had a ‘statutory obligation’ to regulate harmful greenhouse gases,” and found that “[t]he body of scientific evidence marshaled by EPA in support of the Endangerment Finding is substantial,” and that “EPA’s interpretation of the governing CAA provisions is unambiguously correct.”

Following is a statement by Kevin Kennedy, Director, U.S. Climate Initiative, World Resources Institute:

“This important ruling re-affirms EPA’s authority to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and protect people and the environment from climate change. The court ruling confirms the overwhelming scientific evidence underlying EPA’s action to control these emissions, as directed by the U.S. Congress.

“Specifically, the court ruling supports the fact that greenhouse gases “endanger human health and welfare,” as found by the U.S. Supreme Court in Massachusetts vs. EPA. It supports EPA’s action to advance stronger emissions standards for cars and light trucks, one of the most important steps taken by the United States to reduce harmful greenhouse gas pollution to date. And it supports EPA in limiting carbon pollution from the largest industrial emitters, while protecting smaller emitters (under the so-called tailoring rule).

“The scientific evidence underlying climate change and its impacts are clear. We see examples of how our world is changing all around from the record-breaking temperatures in the West to the rapidly rising seas in the Northeast.

“Today’s ruling takes away uncertainty by upholding EPA’s authority – indeed its obligation – to reduce the danger greenhouse gases represent to public health and the environment. With this ruling, EPA has strong support to continue its course.”

Summary of EPA Proposed Performance Standards for Power Plant GHG Emissions

Nicholas Bianco — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 10:22:30 -0400

This summary provides an overview of EPA’s proposed New Source Performance Standard (NSPS) for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from new power plants under Section 111 of the Clean Air Act. It was drafted in partnership with the Pace Energy and Climate Center.

On June 21, 2012, WRI submitted an official comment to the EPA on its proposed NSPS. Read the full comment below.

Download the Complete Summary (PDF, 221 Kb)
Download the Full NSPS Comment

STATEMENT: EPA Proposes First-Ever Standards to Limit Greenhouse Gas Emissions for Power Plants

Michael Oko — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 11:20:38 -0400

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today introduced standards to limit greenhouse gas emissions for new power plants. These standards, called New Source Performance Standards, would limit emissions from new power plants to no more than 1,000 pounds of carbon dioxide per megawatt of electricity produced. This action is based the EPA’s authority under the Clean Air Act, which was passed with bi-partisan support in Congress and was upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court.

Following is a statement by Kevin Kennedy, U.S. Climate Director, World Resources Institute:

“For the first time, EPA has proposed standards to reduce harmful carbon pollution from power plants. The power sector produces one-third of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, and it’s critical to reduce these emissions if we’re going to prevent the worst impacts of climate change.

“These standards will ensure that any new power plants will be designed to protect people’s health and the planet. A quarter of the nation’s fossil fuel-based generation capacity is more than 40 years old, and many plants are approaching retirement. Any plants built today would likely be standing in 2050 and beyond, making strong rules for new plants an important part of the picture.

“We commend EPA for this step to advance the Administration’s commitment to reduce U.S. emissions by 17 percent below 2005 levels by 2020. Today’s announcement follows the Administration’s introduction of historic standards for light-duty vehicles in November 2011.

“Moving forward, it will be important for EPA to address carbon emissions for existing power plants as well. Existing plants represent a significant opportunity to improve efficiency and reduce U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. We can achieve these reductions at low cost while providing power plants flexibility in complying with them.”

# # # #

For more background see Nicholas Bianco’s post, “What to Watch as EPA Releases Greenhouse Gas Requirements for the Power Sector.”

STATEMENT: WRI Response to the Introduction of the Clean Energy Standard Act of 2012

James Anderson — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 09:42:15 -0500

Today, Sen. Jeff Bingaman introduced the Clean Energy Standard Act of 2012. Following is a statement from Kevin Kennedy, Director, U.S. Climate Initiative, World Resources Institute:

“The introduction of the Clean Energy Standard Act is a welcome step toward restarting the important discussion around a national climate and energy policy in the United States. This bill would create much-needed certainty for clean energy investments while driving down greenhouse gas emissions.

“Senator Bingaman has put forward a vision for what Congress can and should do to put America on a path toward a less carbon-intensive and more sustainable energy future. Given the bipartisan history behind clean energy standards, this bill should help drive an overdue conversation about our national energy policy. We expect to see a lively debate over the details of the bill, but serious engagement on these issues will serve the national interest for decades to come.

“Make no mistake: if this bill becomes law, we will see a wave of clean energy investment in America. It’s time for the U.S. to get off the sidelines and into the clean energy game— and seize the economic and environmental benefits that come with it.”

–END–

Read WRI’s blog post on the Clean Energy Standard Act of 2012 by James Bradbury and Kevin Kennedy: Proposed Clean Energy Standard Could Wake Up U.S. Energy Policy.

Additional analysis by WRI on U.S. climate policy >>>

ADVISORY: Roundtable Discussion on "The State of the Clean Air Act: Past, Present and Future"

Lauren Zelin — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 12:40:25 -0500

The World Resources Institute hosts a roundtable discussion featuring former EPA administrators, elected officials, and business and health leaders on “The State of the Clean Air Act: Past, Present and Future” on January 23, 2012. The participants will discuss the law’s significant accomplishments and the challenges that lie ahead.

Sen. Tom Carper and Sen. Lamar Alexander will moderate a discussion featuring former EPA Administrators William Ruckelshaus and William Reilly, CEO Ralph Izzo, PSEG, and health experts Daniel Greenbaum, President of the Health Effects Institute, and Dr. Sumita Khatri, Co-Director of the Asthma Center for the Cleveland Clinic.

WHAT
Roundtable discussion on “State of the Clean Air Act: Past, Present, and Future”

WHO
Sen. Tom Carper (D-Del.), moderator
Sen. Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.), moderator
The Honorable William Ruckelshaus, former EPA Administrator (1970-1973, 1983-1985)
The Honorable William Reilly, former EPA Administrator (1989–1992)
Mr. Ralph Izzo, Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer, PSEG
Mr. Daniel Greenbaum, President and CEO, Health Effects Institute
Dr. Sumita Khatri, M.D., M.Sc, Co-Director of the Asthma Center for the Cleveland Clinic
Mr. Manish Bapna, Interim President, WRI, welcome remarks

WHERE
World Resources Institute
10 G Street NE, Suite 800
Washington, D.C. 20002

WHEN
Monday, January 23, 2011
3:00 – 5:00 p.m. EST

Reception to follow

RSVP Required to press@wri.org

STATEMENT: EPA Issues Standards to Control Mercury and Other Air Toxins

Michael Oko — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 12:21:59 -0500

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued today the first national standards to control mercury and other toxic air pollutants from coal-fired power plants. These standards follow from the bi-partisan 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments that mandated that EPA require control of toxic air pollutants including mercury.

Following is statement by Kevin Kennedy, U.S. Climate Director, World Resources Institute:

“Just in time for the holidays, the EPA has taken a big step toward protecting people and the environment with the release of new mercury standards for power plants. This announcement demonstrates a balanced and responsible approach by the EPA, which has developed these standards through a lengthy, deliberate process involving many stakeholders.

“In fact, these standards have been in development for over 20 years. Many plants are already meeting the standards, and 11 of the 15 largest coal utilities have already informed their shareholders that they are well positioned to comply with them.

“Furthermore, these standards are achievable using current technology and provide sufficient flexibility to protect electric system reliability. While some older coal plants may be pushed toward retirement, this will help expedite a shift to newer and more efficient plants, or other alternate energy sources.

“EPA has taken a significant step toward cleaner air, and we hope to see more progress to protect public health from air pollutants, including greenhouse gases, in the coming year.”

- END -

Read WRI’s analysis of the new mercury rules, here and here.

ADVISORY: WRI's 9th Annual Stories to Watch

Michael Oko — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 14:23:18 -0500

The World Resources Institute will host its 9th Annual Stories to Watch event on January 10, 2012, looking ahead to the big environmental and sustainability stories for 2012. The event will feature Manish Bapna, WRI’s Interim President, who will explore key potential media stories and trends facing people, business, and the planet.

Topics will include: What does the U.S. presidential election mean for key environmental issues, including the future of the EPA? What will be the key drivers for renewable energy in 2012? What does China’s upcoming leadership transition mean? How will the expanding global population impact scarce natural resources, including forests? What will happen at the 2012 Earth Summit in Rio?

The event will take place at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.

A continental breakfast will be served.

WHAT
World Resources Institute’s 9th Annual Stories to Watch

WHO
Manish Bapna, WRI’s interim president, has been with the organization for five years, previously serving as its managing director. Bapna is an internationally recognized expert on environmental and sustainability issues, with a background in international development, rural poverty, and natural resources.

He is a frequently published author, with recent pieces in the Washington Post, McClatchy-Tribune News, Bangkok Post and Huffington Post.

WHERE
National Press Club
The Holeman Lounge
529 14th Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 20045

DIAL-IN INFORMATION
U.S. (Toll-Free): (888) 606-9536
Int’l (Toll): + (212) 547-0412
Passcode: WRI

WHEN
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
9:00 – 10:30 a.m. ET

RSVP required to press@wri.org

Fact Sheet: EPA Mercury Rules and Power Reliability

Kevin Lustig — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 10:30:45 -0500

Recent Electricity Reliability Assessments

North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC). (November 2011) 2011 Long-Term Reliability Assessment.

M.J. Bradley & Associates, LLC; Analysis Group. (November 2011) Ensuring a Clean, Modern Electric Generating Fleet while Maintaining Electric System Reliability; Fall 2011 Update.

DOE. (December 2011) Resource Adequacy Implications of Forthcoming EPA Air Quality Regulations.

Bipartisan Policy Center. (June 2011) Environmental Regulation and Electric System Reliability.

CERES. (November 2011) New Jobs-Cleaner Air Part II: An investment in American Businesses and American Jobs.

Edison Electric Institute. (January 2011) Potential Impacts of Environmental Regulation on the U.S. Generation Fleet.

Electricity generation capacity adequacy and transmission and ancillary services reliability are difficult to quantify and forecast due to the inherently local scale of power flow modeling. However, the lack of reliability problems over decades of previous Clean Air Act regulation and the flexibility of the standards suggest that the U.S. can keep the lights on while cost effectively removing toxic pollutants from power plant emissions.

Power plants are the largest source of mercury emissions to the air. This mercury eventually makes its way into water, and can cause neurological problems for people who eat contaminated seafood. Because of the dangers of mercury emissions, especially to children and pregnant women, a court order mandated that the EPA issue a final set of Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) by December 16, 2011.

Recent modeling assessments have typically focused more broadly on the cumulative impacts of EPA regulations, including: the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR), the Coal Combustion Residuals rule, the 316 (b) Cooling Water Intake Structures rule, and the yet-to-be announced New Source Performance Standards for greenhouse gases. Recent studies have varied largely based on assumptions regarding the stringency of pending regulations, the costs of compliance measures, and the legal flexibility of regulatory enforcement.

Rules Are Flexible, and States Are Prepared

While there are modeling and forecasting limits for assessing long-term electricity system reliability, recent studies indicate that MATS and other EPA rules can be effective and implemented in a timely way while allowing for a range of compliance outcomes. The feasibility of cost-effectively complying with new regulations while maintaining electricity system reliability is supported by four key points:

Both state and federal regulators have a suite of flexible enforcement options, which they have been using for decades, to delay power plant closures when this is necessary to preserve grid reliability; for example, the Cooling Water rule requires states to first consider reliability in implementing new regulations;
While states often have the authority to set more protective pollution control standards in the interest of public health and welfare, there is no evidence that they would do so at the risk of grid reliability. Many states have already exercised this authority without imperiling electricity reliability — as of 2011, 17 states have already imposed rules on mercury and other toxic emissions from power plants, including Montana;
Adequate new plant capacity is in the pipeline to replace the majority of potentially affected power plants; most American power companies are on record as already having prepared for expected environmental regulations;
In terms of compliance, the MATS rule allows for temporal and technological flexibility. As this fact sheet goes to press, the final rule has not yet been published but is expected to allow three years for compliance, with an optional 4th year extension from the EPA or additional security-based extension from the President. A wide range of commercially viable, proven compliance technologies from Flue Gas Desulphurization (FGD) to Dry Sorbent Injection (DSI) and Activated Carbon Injection (ACI) are available to help reduce toxic air emissions and can be installed in 10 to 30 months, providing ample time for America’s skilled engineers, manufactures and technicians to conduct plant upgrades within the legally allotted time frame.

Download the fact sheet to keep reading and see full citations.

STATEMENT: EPA Steps Forward to Reduce GHG Emissions from New Power Plants

Michael Oko — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 11:55:09 -0500

Earlier this week, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sent proposed greenhouse gas emissions standards for new and modified power plants to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review. The EPA is legally required to reduce carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions under the Clean Air Act. This marks the last stage of review before a proposed rule is released for public comment.

Following is a statement by Nicholas Bianco, Senior Associate, World Resources Institute:

“The EPA has taken us a step closer to enacting standards that will help revamp America’s power sector. Power plants represent a third of the dangerous greenhouse gas emissions in the United States, so it is vital for EPA to make use of the tools available to reduce emissions from this sector. As the existing fleet of power plants ages, new rules are needed to ensure that newer plants will be cleaner, more efficient, and less carbon intensive.

“Moving forward it will also be important to see how EPA addresses existing power plants. According to our analysis, there are considerable opportunities to reduce emissions from the existing fleet. These reductions are essential to meet our national commitment to cut GHG emissions by 17 percent by 2020 (compared to 2005 levels).

“As the world’s emissions continue to rise, we look to the EPA to fulfill its responsibility to protect the environment and people’s health.”